The one benefit for the Vegas Golden Knights having as much time off between games is they’re nearing full health at the right time.
Defenseman Jeremy Lauzon was a non-contact participant at practice Friday, a positive sign for the hard-hitting enforcer that he’ll be available for the start of the Stanley Cup Final.
Lauzon hasn’t played since the end of the first round against Utah on May 1 with an upper-body injury. Friday marked the first time Lauzon skated with the team.
Lauzon was the last injured player after captain Mark Stone returned for Game 3 against the Avalanche.
The Knights got contributions from all blue liners in Lauzon’s absence.
Dylan Coghlan made his playoff debut in the second round and was a plus-3 against Anaheim.
He had three points, including his first career playoff goal, against Colorado.
Kaedan Korczak was benched in favor of Ben Hutton during the Anaheim series, but found a rhythm with Coghlan against the Avalanche.
Korczak had two assists in Game 3 and was a plus-3 in the series.
Lauzon had no points in the Utah series, but his physical presence will be welcomed back.
But with the way Coghlan is playing, and the way Korczak finished the last round, a tough decision will be coming on who sits.
McNabb takes Friday off
The only one missing Friday was defenseman Brayden McNabb, who had a maintenance day.
Ben Hutton skated in his place on the top pairing with Shea Theodore.
Friday’s practice was one of the longest on record in recent memory, lasting for almost an hour.
Coach John Tortorella called the session “outstanding.”
Contact Danny Webster at dwebster@reviewjournal.com. Follow @DannyWebster21 on X.
