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.
-
Hear from Noah Hanifin ahead of Stanley Cup Finals in North Carolina
The Guys in Gold are gearing up for the Stanley Cup finals as they prepare to take on the Carolina Hurricanes.
Vegas Golden Knights leadership talks preparations ahead of Stanley Cup Finals
General Manager Kelly McCrimmon and Head Coach John Tortorella spoke to media members, reflecting on the playoff run so far and looking ahead to the Stanley Cup Finals.
WATCH: Vegas Golden Knights leadership talks preparations for Stanley Cup Final
The Guys in Gold are in North Carolina as they prepare to start this series after coming off a clean sweep against the Colorado Avalanche in the Western Conference Finals.
How John Tortorella helped the Vegas Golden Knights find their swagger
Despite taking over with just eight games left in the regular season, Tortorella has led the team to a 19-4-1 record, winning the Pacific Division and advancing to the Stanley Cup Final.