Vegas Golden Knights star leaves practice with potential injury that could completely change the series
The Edmonton Oilers and Vegas Golden Knights are set to start their best of 7 series tonight in Vegas. Both teams have been waiting for tonight since their first round series came to an end. However, a visual today at practice has possibly completely changed the complexion of the entire series.
During morning skate, Vegas Golden Knights captain Mark Stone was spotted laboring before leaving the practice early. Stone has dealt with injuries to his back for the last two years including undergoing surgery last summer.
When asked during his normal availability, Bruce Cassidy said, "Assume everything is good, haven't heard any differently."
While the video doesn't provide a lot of context it clearly appears that Stone is moving very little and could potentially be protecting his back. If Stone is unable to go it will drastically alter the Knights approach, especially given Stone's defensive abilities. Stone's incredible two-way play would likely find himself matched up against the line of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
We will have to wait until the pre-game skate to find out if Stone will be in the Vegas lineup, because it's clear Bruce Cassidy isn't giving up anything.
| POLL | ||
If Mark Stone is unable to play who wins this series? | ||
| Edmonton Oilers | 87 | 37 % |
| Vegas Golden Knights | 51 | 21.7 % |
| Edmonton wins even if Stone plays | 97 | 41.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
