The Vegas Golden Knights are gearing up to hit the ice again after the Olympic break, but they'll be missing some key players in their clash against the Los Angeles Kings this Wednesday. Head Coach Bruce Cassidy confirmed that center Jack Eichel and defenseman Noah Hanifin will be absent from the lineup.
Eichel and Hanifin have a notable reason for their absence-they'll be attending the State of the Union Address at the White House. This invitation comes on the heels of their thrilling 2-1 overtime victory against Canada in the Olympic gold-medal game.
U.S. President Donald Trump extended the invitation, a moment captured in a viral locker room celebration video featuring a call facilitated by FBI director Kash Patel.
While the logistics might allow for a quick return from the White House to Vegas by game time, the NHL requires players to have at least a day off after the Olympics and its festivities. Given their return is set for Wednesday, that day will serve as their mandatory rest period, sidelining them for the game.
Their decision to visit the White House hasn't been without its share of debate. The Golden Knights will miss two pivotal players in a crucial Pacific Division matchup, as they aim to solidify their top spot. Moreover, the players' association with Trump, a figure surrounded by controversy, has sparked discussions off the ice.
As for the Golden Knights' Canadian Olympians-wingers Mitch Marner, Mark Stone, and defenseman Shea Theodore-their status for Wednesday's game remains uncertain. Cassidy indicated that clarity on their availability would come earlier on game day.
Currently sitting atop the Pacific Division with a 27-16-14 record, the Golden Knights are eager to kick off their post-Olympic campaign on a high note against the Kings, with the puck set to drop at 7 p.m. PT.