The Vegas Golden Knights may receive a crucial boost to their lineup for Game 2 of their series against the Edmonton Oilers, while also confirming a key player remains sidelined.
According to Head Coach Bruce Cassidy, top defenseman Alex Pietrangelo`s availability for Game 2 is a game-time decision. Pietrangelo was absent from Game 1 due to illness, and his potential return would strengthen the team`s defensive core.
However, forward Pavel Dorofeyev, who led the Golden Knights in scoring during the regular season, will not play in Game 2. He continues to be out with an undisclosed injury.
Pietrangelo, a 35-year-old veteran, was a significant contributor during the Golden Knights` six-game first-round series victory over the Minnesota Wild, recording three points.
In Pietrangelo`s place in the Game 1 lineup was 24-year-old defenseman Kaedan Korczak.
Dorofeyev, 24, had a breakout offensive campaign, leading Vegas with 35 goals and totaling 52 points. His absence leaves a gap in the team`s scoring depth.
Filling in for Dorofeyev in the lineup and on the power play has been Victor Olofsson, who scored 15 goals over the season.
Pavel Dorofeyev suffered his injury late in the Golden Knights` 3-2 overtime win against the Wild in Game 5 of their opening-round series.
