Mark Stone of Golden Knights Cleared to Play in Game 1 Against Stars Following Spleen Injury Recovery

Monday, April 22nd, 2024

Mark Stone, the captain of the Vegas Golden Knights, is set to return to the ice for Game 1 of the Western Conference quarterfinal series against the Dallas Stars. Stone has been absent from the team's lineup since February 20 due to a lacerated spleen.

Last season, Stone had to undergo a second surgical procedure on his back within a span of 13 months, resulting in him missing the Golden Knights' opening series against the Winnipeg Jets. Despite this, he managed to make a comeback in time for the playoffs.

The injury to Stone prompted the Golden Knights to be proactive at the NHL trade deadline, leading to the acquisition of players like Anthony Mantha, Noah Hanifin, and Tomas Hertl. Stone is expected to play alongside Hertl on a line that Chandler Stephenson will be centering.

Bruce Cassidy, the coach of the Golden Knights, intends to keep an eye on Stone's fitness levels during Game 1, although he has decided not to put any restrictions on the amount of time Stone spends on the ice. According to Cassidy, the duration of Stone's shifts will play a crucial role in determining his total playing time.

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