DENVER — Vegas Golden Knights forward Jack Eichel is day-to-day due to an upper-body injury. He missed Tuesday night`s game against Colorado, which the Golden Knights lost 3-2 in a shootout.
Coach Bruce Cassidy didn`t provide any new information about Eichel`s condition. Eichel is the team`s top scorer this season, with 93 points.
“We will evaluate his status when we return home,” Cassidy said after the game. In the game, the Golden Knights were outshot by the Avalanche 36-21.
Defensemen Nicolas Hague and Alex Pietrangelo also missed the game due to illness.
“Several players are feeling unwell, some still played because we had to. It`s going around the locker room a bit,” Cassidy mentioned. “Hopefully, returning home will allow players to rest and recover before Thursday`s game.”
Despite the loss, the Golden Knights remain in a strong position in the Pacific Division. They are leading the Los Angeles Kings by six points with the regular season ending next week. By securing a point against Colorado, Vegas has ensured home-ice advantage for the first round of the playoffs.
The team is gradually getting healthier. Tomas Hertl has resumed practicing after recovering from an upper-body injury. Goalie Ilya Samsonov, who plays for the team`s AHL affiliate, Henderson Silver Knights, may also return soon. He hasn`t played for Vegas since March 23rd.
Eichel has been less productive in his last four games, without any goals or assists. His next goal will be his 100th with the Golden Knights, joining other players who have reached this milestone for Vegas.
Tristan Blackwood