The Vegas Golden Knights have officially clinched a playoff berth, marking a significant milestone for star forward Jack Eichel, who will be participating in the NHL playoffs for the first time in his career. The 26-year-old, who was drafted second overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, has eagerly awaited this opportunity, and his performance with the Golden Knights has been instrumental in securing their place in the postseason.
Eichel was traded to the Golden Knights in 2021, in a deal that saw Alex Tuch, Peyton Krebs, a 2022 first-round pick, and a 2023 conditional second-round pick heading to Buffalo. Over his career, Eichel has played in 471 games, including 62 this season for the Golden Knights. In those games, he has scored 27 goals and provided 33 assists, accumulating a total of 60 points.
The Vegas Golden Knights have clinched a playoff berth.
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) March 31, 2023
This will be the first time Jack Eichel plays in the NHL playoffs 🔥 pic.twitter.com/DjtbpQqMBZ
The Golden Knights’ playoff berth also solidifies their position as a powerhouse in the Western Conference. They are currently the only team in the conference to have secured a spot in the playoffs, boasting an impressive 99 points with seven games remaining in the regular season. Vegas sits atop the Pacific Division, with the Edmonton Oilers close on their heels, just two points behind. However, the Golden Knights hold an advantage with one game in hand, giving them a slight edge in the race for division supremacy.
As the playoffs approach, the anticipation surrounding Jack Eichel’s first postseason appearance continues to build. Eager to showcase his talents on the playoff stage, the talented forward will no doubt play a crucial role in the Golden Knights’ pursuit of the Stanley Cup.
With a strong roster and a proven track record of success, the Vegas Golden Knights are poised to make a deep playoff run. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Eichel and his teammates battle it out for hockey’s ultimate prize, adding another thrilling chapter to the NHL’s rich history.