Eichel & Theodore Out: Knights' Lineup Shaken

The Vegas Golden Knights are navigating a period of key player absences as forward Jack Eichel and defenseman Alex Theodore are currently out of the lineup. Eichel's situation involves illness coupled with a lower-body injury, though coach Bruce Cassidy expressed optimism about his swift return, possibly within the next week. Theodore, who had been performing at a season high, is sidelined with an upper-body injury that is expected to keep him out week-to-week.

These injuries come at a crucial juncture for the team, which entered Friday's play tied with the Anaheim Ducks atop the Pacific Division standings with identical 42-point totals. Eichel has been a significant contributor, leading the Golden Knights in assists with 29 and total points with 41, alongside 12 goals. Theodore, a vital defenseman, has amassed 20 points (four goals, 16 assists) and maintains a plus-5 rating.

The team is set to embark on a two-game road trip against divisional opponents, visiting Calgary on Saturday and Edmonton on Sunday. The ability of the Golden Knights to maintain their strong position in the division will be tested as they face these challenges without two of their important players.