Golden Knights Captain Returns To Practice In Non-Contact Uniform

Vegas Golden Knights forward Mark Stone returned to practice today in a red, non-contact jersey.

The Golden Knights' captain has been out since Nov. 6, the last time they played the Edmonton Oilers. The 32-year-old suffered a lower-body injury during the last shift of the game as he scored the empty net goal, which sealed the 4-2 victory.

His 12-game absence has been felt greatly, but the Golden Knights have been able to stay afloat and keep themselves in first place in the Pacific Division. They hold a two-point lead over the Los Angeles Kings.

Practicing in a non-contact jersey is a good sign that Stone is close to returning and HC Bruce Cassidy confirmed that. During his media availability following the practice, Cassidy confirmed that Stone won't be in the lineup for tomorrow's encounter against the Oilers but wasn't going to rule him out of Wednesday's matchup against the Anaheim Ducks.

He wants Stone to skate in a practice where he participates with contact before inserting him back into the Golden Knights lineup.

Stone was on pace to have a career year before sustaining the injury. He had shown great chemistry with Jack Eichel and Ivan Barbashev and they were forming one of the most dominant lines in hockey. His leadership and all-around game has been missed and whenever he is ready to re-enter the lineup, the Golden Knights will feel the positive effects of his return.

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