The Vegas Golden Knights have been in a learning season of sorts. They've gotten off to a strange start and are trying to figure things out. Luckily for them, the NHL functions on points rather than overall wins and losses. That's where those eight overtime losses come in handy, eh?
But they're just starting a tough five-game stretch on the East Coast. They already took care of the New Jersey Devils, shutting them out on Friday, 3-0. The theme of the "Knight?" Scoring, especially from the power play, and Akira Schmid.
But let's focus on the scoring for a second. The central theme around the last contest between the Golden Knights and the New York Rangers was depth scoring. That meant getting players like Braeden Bowman involved and making the magic happen. It doesn't matter if it's Igor Shesterkin or Jonathan Quick. Just get the goals going for the Golden Knights.
But it goes beyond merely putting the biscuit in the basket. You see, additional layers reside here. You can do whatever you wish with trying to shoot the puck. However, it only works if you have a plan (see Pavel Dorofeyev).
So, let's examine three Golden Knights stars who need to get some pucks in the net. That way, people can start spreading the news that the Vegas "Evil Empire" is up and running.
1.) Shea Theodore
The Original Misfit has been on a burner to start December, scoring a goal and two assists. He has the chance to pick up where he left off from an incredible November. Here, he scored three goals and six assists, awakening from the slumber that had plagued him in October.
His goal-scoring acumen has suddenly erupted, making him a key factor in Sunday's game. Considering that he's been relatively quiet in his career against the Rangers (a goal and two assists in 14 games), Sunday could be the perfect opportunity for him to explode.
2.) Braeden Bowman
In his last game against the Rangers, the Golden Knights' rookie scored a decisive goal. That helped Vegas to a crucial 3-2 victory, getting the gang going strong. All eyes will be on him to duplicate that performance on Sunday.
Will he pull through again? Can he overcome the gawdy task of taking down the Rangers goaltending? The common joke has been that the Rangers can't score at Madison Square Garden. That presents a perfect opportunity for the undrafted star to take the reins offensively.
3.) Brett Howden
I almost named this section "You Know," which would've been funny. But you know what's strange? Brett Howden hasn't had a goal in his last four games. In fact, he only has one assist during that stretch, leaving fans to wonder if this is it for the former first-round pick.
What better way to get off the snide than by scoring against your former team? He has three goals and two assists in his career against New York, although his last goal came on January 18, 2024. If Vegas can get depth scoring from him, that'll go a long way in beating the Rangers.