Look, I know that the memories of Shea Theodore injuring his wrist at the 4 Nations Face-Off are seared in the minds of many Vegas Golden Knights fans. It's like a traumatic event that you simply can't shake. When you lose one of your best defenders on the ice, it hurts on another level.
It's no wonder that Alex Pietrangelo didn't want any part in last season's festivities. He didn't want to be hurt since he already had lingering injuries. Shortly after, he goes on season-ending long-term injured reserve, leaving some room to sign... Mitch Marner.
Yes, way, my friend. The Golden Knights can thank the LTIR Gods that there was enough room to bring in Marner. Boy, 10 goals and 36 assists looks good on you in Vegas gold, eh? It's like they needed someone like him to put them in the Stanley Cup conversation.
So... what can we learn about the Olympics? Should we have a "doom and gloom" mentality towards the event? Or should we just enjoy the festivities and celebrate the world? Personally, I'm taking the latter in this situation. Here's why.
Here's why I'm enjoying the Vegas Golden Knights playing at the 2026 Winter Olympics
Imagine this scenario, dear reader. You're watching Jack Eichel and the Americans take on Mark Stone and Team Canada. The two Golden Knights megastars are battling it out for Olympic gold and national pride. It's something that Las Vegas has been waiting for ever since the Golden Knights started taking off.
Of course, this also kicks off the hypothetical question:
"Who would win in a battle between Eichel and Stone?" You could also apply this to Mitch Marner and Tomas Hertl. Heck, you could even go a step further and try Jonas Rondbjerg against Akira Schmid for a deeper cut. But the fantasy matchup is one that lingers in the minds of hockey fans everywhere.
Personally, I'm enjoying that aspect of the Olympics. I'm obligated to cheer for the Americans since, well, I'm American. If I root for any other country, I will be automatically outed as a treasonous traitor.
But the Golden Knights? Everyone in Las Vegas can get on board with that. Fans want to see Akira Schmid succeed, along with other prominent players like Marner, Eichel, and Stone. Let's look at the Olympics through those lenses and enjoy the February festivities, shall we?