Mark Stone Returns, But the Golden Knights Fall to the Senators
The Golden Knights captain, Mark Stone, returned to action after an absence of more than a month due to a wrist injury. Despite scoring an equalizing goal in the third period, his team suffered a 4-3 defeat in the penalty shootout against the Ottawa Senators on Wednesday. This loss marks the eighth time the Vegas team has fallen in overtime, with a record of 1-8 in games that extend beyond regulation time. Although they have scored points in seven of their last eight games, four of them have ended in overtime losses. Stone, who was on the injured list since October 20, had accumulated 13 points in his first six games before the injury.Before his return, Stone was training with the Golden Knights’ affiliate team in the American Hockey League in Henderson, Nevada.It’s good to have his energy back. He’s good on the bench. He’s a leader. It’s nice to have him back. He makes our team better.
Bruce Cassidy, coach
Initially, Stone played on the top line before the injury, but in the game against the Senators, he was assigned to the center of the third line, with Mitch Marner playing on the wing. Braeden Bowman, a 22-year-old rookie, remained on the top line alongside Jack Eichel and Ivan Barbashev. This is not the first time Stone, 33 years old, has suffered injuries in recent seasons. Last season he played 66 games, his highest number since the 2018-19 season.If I hadn’t had that, I’d probably be thinking about returning on Friday. Everything is healed. I had the practices I needed. I’m ready to play.
Mark Stone
Every injury is frustrating. I don’t enjoy rehabilitation. Unfortunately, I’ve become good at it. I understand the best way to do it, but no rehabilitation is fun. I don’t wish it on anyone. I’m excited to be back.
Mark Stone
