Once upon a time, Tomas Hertl held the single-season record for the most power play goals with 14. He was the instrument that kept the Vegas Golden Knights' power play chugging along, giving them more size upfront. That was until a Russian winger named Pavel Dorofeyev came along and scored 20 the next season.
But something funny happened during the summer. That Russian winger was traded to the New York Rangers and got a new seven-year, $11 million AAV deal. Suddenly, the Golden Knights don't have a bona fide shooter to rely on, leaving them to look for someone to step up.
That could come in the form of Jack Eichel, who could use more than one power play goal in a season. Heck, he could hope for more than two postseason goals while he's at it. Heck, even throw Mitch Marner in the mix since he's itching to prove some people wrong.
Still, the onus falls more on Hertl to carry the load. He had 13 power play goals last season, picking up where he left off. The Czech Olympian's slot presence will be called upon more than ever for deflections and rebounds, feasting on them at all costs.
Let's say that the burden gets too much to bear. Personally, I don't think this is too much of a problem since the Golden Knights acquired him (26.9% power play percentage since April 7, 2024). But who could help Hertl out on the unit?
Who can help Tomas Hertl out on the power play unit?
As mentioned, Jack Eichel can help the Golden Knights out here. One power play goal isn't enough to get the job done, especially with Dorofeyev out of the picture. But he's not the only figure that the Golden Knights must lean on.
In fact, it's a name that not many people will think about. Look at Victor Olofsson for this one since he plays a similar role to Dorofeyev. The Swedish winger scored six power play goals in his first Vegas residency, making him a surprisingly good figure.
Watch for Olofsson to impact the power play unit if given the chance, whether it's near the point or in the corners. The Golden Knights would be wise to use him as much as possible to tap into some deflections and rebounds for Hertl.
The Golden Knights can get more from Hertl if he controls the slot
Yes, Golden Knights fans will want more from Hertl in even strength situations. When 13 of your 24 goals (over half!) come on the power play, that leaves fans unimpressed. It has also added fuel to the trade rumor fire, putting him front and center of potential deals.
However, all of that can change if Hertl can play off his strengths. Use your size and create more magic up front. Do that to deter defenders from getting to you and "Fun Will Be Always."
All of this will keep the Czech Olympian around a little longer while satisfying the fans. He's grown into a loving figure within the Golden Knights' community, endearing people with his loving charm and personality. Why not carry the power play along the way?
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