Normally, Vegas Golden Knights fans need an introduction to the players called up from the Henderson Silver Knights. They don't know who's the ice filling in for injured players. It leaves them wondering how long they'll be on the team until the roster mainstay returns. Most of all, it has them saying this:
However, that isn't a problem with Jonas Rondbjerg, who was called up to the main roster on Monday. The Danish forward is stepping in for Tanner Laczynski, who was sent down to the Silver Knights. Rondbjerg is familiar with the Golden Knights roster, playing with the team for three seasons.
In fact, he's played 63 total games in the NHL, scoring three goals and seven assists. That's ample time for a forward made primarily for the minor leagues. What's more, he's played 22 more games in the SHL (Swedish Hockey League) than the NHL, making him a reliable call-up when injuries hit.
This time, he could prove himself more viable if he becomes a proficient goal-scorer during his stay. Alexander Holtz isn't lighting up the world right now with two goals and seven assists. He's been one of the most snakebitten Golden Knights out there, leaving an opportunity for Rondbjerg to step in.
What's the role of Jonas Rondbjerg?
A player like Jonas Rondbjerg typically goes on the fourth line, acting as either the left wing or right wing. He doesn't carry enough goal-scoring acumen to play on the top-six lines and contribute regularly. However, the 25-year-old is smart enough to impact the lower lines, making him a key piece.
How? He plays responsible hockey, taking care of the puck and gravitating towards the play. The Danish forward goes well with players like Keegan Kolesar and Brett Howden, where they can set up excellent scoring opportunities with each other and race down the ice.
On top of that, he's a sizable winger. Rondbjerg stands at 6'2" and weighs 197 lbs., giving the fourth line more forechecking bite. That's part of why he pairs well with Kolesar. Both players can create turnovers and play a more physical brand of hockey.
Another opportunity awaits for Rondbjerg
Let's be 100% honest. Rondbjerg isn't going to be a roster mainstay unless Mark Stone sneezes funny and conjures the anger of every other hockey fan with an LTIR stay. In fact, he'll likely spend one or two games on the main roster before going down to the Henderson Silver Knights.
Ivan Barbashev and Nicolas Roy should return to the team soon, giving the Golden Knights their roster mainstays again. Once that time comes, it'll be time to send down the Danish forward to the AHL again. It's sad to see the minor league star leave the premises.
However, let's enjoy the time Rondbjerg has with the Golden Knights. He's always a threat to crack the main roster, entertaining fans with his intelligent play. This New Year's, pour a drink for the 25-year-old playing more hockey at the NHL level. He's becoming a Golden Knights staple like Carnell Johnson and Lee Orchard.