Mark Stone hits back at critics targeting the Golden Knights
Photo credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA Today Sports
In recent years, the Vegas Golden Knights have faced criticism for their harsh management of star players and bold NHL salary cap maneuvers.
Despite losing key players like Jonathan Marchessault, William Carrier, Chandler Stephenson, Michael Amadio, Anthony Mantha, and Alec Martinez to free agency, Stone is confident that the Golden Knights' championship window is still open.
Stone shared his thoughts with Gary Lawless of the Golden Knights' website, expressing belief in the team's resilience despite the criticism and setbacks.
"As I'm older I have realized that people are going to put a bullseye on our back because they want to see us fail," Stone said. "We haven't failed too much in our history. People want to see the Golden Knights crash and burn. But like I said, I think the foundation we built doesn't really allow for that to happen. So, I'm feeling confident."
Last season, the Golden Knights made crucial additions at the trade deadline, acquiring Tomas Hertl from the San Jose Sharks and Noah Hanifin from the Calgary Flames. Hanifin's eight-year, $58.8 million contract extension has bolstered the team's defensive depth.
The impact of these acquisitions, along with a full season of play, could significantly enhance the Golden Knights' chances this year.
Despite a disappointing first-round exit last season following their 2023 Stanley Cup victory, he remains hopeful. Mark Stone believes that skepticism surrounding the team's prospects only fuels their determination.
"I think the team is excited to get back. We definitely have that chip on our shoulder. A lot of people in our industry don't believe that we can get back to the team that we know we are, but time will tell. We still believe that we're one of the teams that is going to training camp with the chance to win the Stanley Cup."
Stone's health is a critical factor for the Golden Knights. After a lacerated spleen injury in February limited him to 136 games over the past three seasons, he is eager to return to full health.
"I feel good. I was feeling great last year too. I was having one of the better statistical years of my career too until I had that freak accident," Stone said. "I'm feeling good and energized after an unfortunate long summer. I am excited to get back playing.
Mark Stone is hopeful to play all 82 games this season and is energized by the upcoming challenges.
Before his injury last season, Stone recorded 16 goals and 53 points in 56 games, plus three goals in the seven-game series against the Dallas Stars.
With a strong foundation and a motivated roster, the Golden Knights are gearing up for the new season with high expectations.
| POLL | ||
21 AOUT | 137 ANSWERS Mark Stone hits back at critics targeting the Golden Knights Will the Golden Knights be a Stanley Cup contender this upcoming season? | ||
| Yes | 55 | 40.1 % |
| No | 82 | 59.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
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