LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Being selected for his first Olympic team is a dream come true for Noah Hanifin, who credits his experience in last year's Four Nations Face-Off with preparing him for the moment.
Sports Reporter Alex Eschelman has more on how that tournament changed Hanifin's game.
"I think just confidence-wise, anytime you play in a tournament like that, you're playing against the best players in the world," he said.
"The pace of play and the level is so high; after you experience something like that, coming back to the regular season, it just gives you a different confidence. The game almost feels a little bit slower in some ways.
"I think anytime you play in high-pressure situations, whether it's Four Nations or playoff games, it always makes you a better player."
The Vegas Golden Knights are back at home Thursday to host the Blue Jackets at 7 p.m.
-
‘Hexing’ the VGK? Denver donut shop leans into Vegas’ villain reputation for WCF
A Denver donut shop tried to “hex” the Golden Knights ahead of the Western Conference Final. Then Vegas won Game 1 and leaned further into its role as the NHL’s villain.
VGK rolls to early lead, hold off Avs 4-2 to open Western Conference Final
It was a smothering performance most of the game by the Golden Knights as they kept the pressure on goaltender Scott Wedgewood, while controlling the Avalanche's speed through the neutral zone.
Colorado without Makar in Game 1; Stone skates for VGK ahead of West Final
The Avalanche will be without superstar defenseman Cale Makar for Game 1 against the Golden Knights, while Vegas captain Mark Stone returned to the ice Wednesday morning at Ball Arena as his status for the series opener remains uncertain.
NHL Coaches' Association says it is monitoring the situation with Bruce Cassidy and Vegas
The NHL Coaches' Association says it is closely monitoring the situation involving Bruce Cassidy amid reports that the Vegas Golden Knights have denied multiple teams permission to speak with him about working for them