Stone’s comeback story: From wrist injury to game-changing goal
Vegas Golden Knights captain Mark Stone returned from a 16-game wrist injury, scoring a third-period power-play goal that tied the game against the Ottawa Senators. The Knights eventually lost 4-3 in a shootout, extending their overtime losses streak. Stone logged 19:58 of ice time, produced three shots on goal, two hits and three takeaways, and was prominent on the Knights’ top line.
Stone’s return also highlighted the team’s strategic adjustments, including placing him on the third line with Brett Howden and Mitch Marner, aiding a smoother reintegration. The game underscored Stone’s impact on Vegas’ power play and its leadership role as they navigate a demanding December slate.
The moment that mattered most
With Vegas trailing 3-2 late in the third, Stone gathered the puck at the goal line on a power play. His second attempt deflected off Tim Stutzle’s skate and into the net, tying the game 3-3. It marked Stone’s 14th point in seven games this season, reaffirming his role as a productive catalyst when healthy.
A frustrating pattern of rehab
Since 2021-22, Stone has missed 142 games due to injuries, including back surgeries and other ailments. The wrist injury is another setback in a career of resilience, but his return energizes the club as they push toward a playoff run.
Overtime woes and implications
Vegas could not convert in overtime or shootouts, dropping to an 0-7-8 mark in extra-time contests. The loss kept them within a point of the division lead but highlighted the need to convert opportunities and manage workload as they head into December.
Leadership and lineup dynamics
Stone’s return provided a leadership boost and allowed Casssidy to experiment with line combinations, balancing minutes and preserving key players’ health. The team remains focused on extending their playoff position while maintaining depth across lines.
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Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.