Golden Knights’ Jack Eichel to Make Season Debut Wednesday Against Avalanche
It’s the moment everyone has been waiting for, the Vegas Golden Knights have finally announced forward Jack Eichel’s return date.
After practicing in a full-contact jersey for a week, Eichel has been cleared for game action by team doctors, and will suit up Wednesday night at home against the Colorado Avalanche.
The Buffalo Sabres traded Eichel, 25, to the Golden Knights on Nov. 4, 2021, receiving in return a package including forwards Peyton Krebs, Alex Tuch, a 2022 first-round pick and a 2023 third.
Since then, the 6’2” centre has been recovering from a disc replacement procedure, resolving an injury that had been plaguing him over the past several months. Now, the right-hander will receive his first opportunity to play alongside his new teammates in a meaningful game.
With Eichel coming off the long-term injured reserve, his $10 million cap hit will once again count against the NHL’s $81.5 million salary cap. Conveniently because captain Mark Stone and his $9.5 million cap hit are headed to LTIR in a corresponding move, the club won’t be required to make any additional moves before placing the former Sabre back on their active roster.
Through six NHL seasons, the North Chelmsford, Massachusetts native has posted 139 goals and 355 points across 375 career games.
Vegas is scheduled to host Colorado on Wednesday, with puck drop slated for 10:00 pm ET.
-Thomas Hall
Twitter: @ThomasHall85