Golden Knights’ Karlsson Game-Time Decision; Latest Update

The Vegas Golden Knights return to action on Thursday against the Boston Bruins and look to do so with a familiar face back in the lineup. William Karlsson, who has been out with a lower-body injury, will likely draw back in for the first time since January 20th.

“[William Karlsson getting back in tonight] is the plan. We’ll call it a game-time decision,” said head coach Bruce Cassidy. “He’ll have to make that call, but we’re pretty sure he’s going to go.”

Karlsson was a full participant at practice on Monday, taking part in line rushes and wearing a regular contact jersey. 

“[Getting Karlsson back] balances our four lines even better,” said Cassidy. “He’s always going to be an excellent 200-foot player, so in that respect, being comfortable putting any line over the boards, he helps with that. He’s always been a guy who’s driven the line with his overall play and pace. He scores, makes plays, and does a bit of everything. He always makes his wingers better… That’s what he’ll do right away.

“[The team is] always happy to see him back in; he’s a great teammate and a good player,” Cassidy continued. “He plays in all situations– penalty kill, second power play, we use him for a lot of important draws. He’s always out there late in games to help protect leads. It’s good to have him back.”

Karlsson’s Comments

Hockey players hate injuries. They don’t want to sit out; they want to be in the lineup, helping their team win. William Karlsson is no exception.

“It’s been frustrating because you want to be out there,” said Karlsson. “When you get injured, and you can’t play, it’s kind of a reminder how much you do love the game of hockey and how much fun it is. I’m super happy to hopefully be back tonight.”

Because of his injury, today was the first time Karlsson was able to comment on the Golden Knights reacquiring his long-time linemate, Reilly Smith.

“[I missed] just having him around, honestly. He’s a great guy, a great family friend.”

Karlsson, who was already anxious to return to play, had yet another reason to want to return to the lineup.

“When [the trade] was finalized, it was like, ‘okay, he’s coming here,’” said Karlsson. “I had goosebumps; I was super happy. It was good news… Ever since [the trade] was done, I’ve been itching to come back, even more than I already wanted to. Hopefully, we get some games in together and have some fun out there.”

Karlsson and Smith have always had great chemistry, dating back to the Golden Knights’ first season in 2017-18. Karlsson set a franchise record for most points in a single season, and Smith logged 60 points for the first time.

“I hope [the chemistry] comes back instantly. We’re pretty honest and open with each other, and if he feels like we should do something a certain way, we talk about it. There are no problems. Hopefully, it clicks just like it did eight years ago.”