Jack Eichel Eyes Hart Trophy Amidst Golden Knights’ Struggles, Leads Vegas Team With Stellar Performance
Jack Eichel’s impressive 58-point performance across 46 games has put him in MVP conversations despite the Las Vegas Golden Knights’ struggle to maintain their lead in the Pacific Division. The team’s rough 1-5-1 stretch barely holds their one-point lead against the Edmonton Oilers.
Eichel’s skill on the ice is evident in numbers. He ranks fourth in the NHL with 46 assists and an excellent plus/minus rating of 24. With 12 goals and a current 8.3% shooting percentage, the 27-year-old ranks eighth in Hart Trophy odds for the BetMGM Sportsbook rankings.
These stats only tell part of his importance to Vegas. Since Eichel arrived in 2021, his strong two-pay play and consistency have paid off. He helped the team reach a Stanley Cup victory in 2023.
Forward Ivan Barbashev told KTNV that Eichel’s “preparation is the best in the game.” Head coach Bruce Cassidy noted Eichel’s stand-out leadership qualities essential to the Golden Knights’ success, especially without veteran players Jonathan Marchessault, Chandler Stephenson, and Alec Martinez.
Cassidy compared Eichel’s work ethic and influence on younger teammates to the likes of NHL legends Zdeno Chara and Patrice Bergeron, expressing how the “best players are your hardest working in practice, and the guys that are the most professional,” according to KTNV.
When asked how he maintains his hard work and dedication, Eichel attributed his success to consistency, he told other media outlets.
Good goaltending and accurate shooting keep the Vegas Golden Knights in the race. As the Pacific Division battle heats up, this combination with Eichel’s leadership could set them apart.