Noah Hanifin made an impressive return to the ice after missing nearly a month due to an undisclosed injury sustained during the Golden Knights’ season opener. Rather than easing back into competition with reduced ice time, the 29-year-old defenseman immediately took charge, logging substantial minutes that placed him alongside fellow blueliner Shea Theodore as a leading skater for the team. Hanifin expressed his commitment to maintaining the Golden Knights’ strong defensive reputation, stating, “Us as a team, we always take pride in playing good defensive hockey in front of whoever is in net.”
Under the leadership of fourth-year coach Bruce Cassidy, the Golden Knights have consistently prioritized defensive prowess, a principle that continues to hold true this season, even as the team faced several challenges. Notably, the absence of longtime defensive leader Alex Pietrangelo, who stepped away to address chronic hip issues, had raised concerns about the team’s blue line. However, the defense has remained resilient, allowing Vegas to sit prominently among the top teams in the league regarding advanced defensive metrics.
Despite encountering a rough patch earlier in the season, which included losing eight out of eleven games and four consecutive matches, the Golden Knights’ defensive capabilities have not faltered. They currently rank third in the NHL for expected goals allowed in the first 20 games, although they are positioned 11th in actual goals allowed. This discrepancy is largely attributed to challenges in goaltending, exacerbated by starting goalie Adin Hill’s absence due to a lower-body injury, which is expected to keep him sidelined for at least another month.
In Hill’s absence, the Golden Knights have relied on former New Jersey Devil Akira Schmid and rookie Carl Lindbom, who have shown flashes of potential but rank near the bottom in high-danger save percentage together. Meanwhile, there is hope on the horizon with the potential return of former Philadelphia Flyer Carter Hart, who is eligible to rejoin the NHL after completing a suspension. This signing has sparked discussions due to the controversial nature surrounding Hart’s past legal issues.
As the Golden Knights pursue their fifth Pacific Division title and aim for a second Stanley Cup, Hanifin, Theodore, and the rest of the defensive unit are focused on easing the transition for whoever takes the starting goalie position. Since his return, Hanifin has been steady, while Theodore has elevated his performance, leading the NHL with Brayden McNabb in goals allowed per 60 minutes. Theodore expressed optimism about adapting to new responsibilities this season, noting, “I’m getting more comfortable.”
The emerging defensive tandem of Kaeden Korczak and Jeremy Lauzon has also impressed, with Korczak finding his footing in the NHL alongside veteran Ben Hutton. Although Lauzon is currently on injured reserve, the team maintains a hopeful outlook on Korczak’s continued development.
While Zach Whitecloud, often paired with Hanifin, may be underperforming relative to expectations, his long-standing connection with the organization suggests he will find his form again. Overall, the Golden Knights continue to demonstrate strong defensive fundamentals, a trend that has served them well throughout their history. Coach Cassidy expressed satisfaction with the team’s defensive efforts, highlighting that the collective commitment to defense remains a cornerstone of their strategy.