Vegas Golden Knights Prepare for Season Opener Against Los Angeles Kings Amid Player Injuries

What's Happening?

The Vegas Golden Knights are set to face the Los Angeles Kings on October 8, 2025, marking the start of the 2025-26 NHL regular season. The game will take place at 7 p.m. PT. The Kings, who recently suffered a 4-1 loss to the Colorado Avalanche, are dealing with injuries to key players Corey Perry and Kyle Burroughs, both of whom are on injured reserve. In contrast, the Golden Knights have no injured players listed. The Kings' lineup will see Anton Forsberg making his debut after signing a two-year contract. The Golden Knights, who held an optional morning skate, have Pavel Dorofeyev as a game-time decision due to an undisclosed injury, though he is expected to play. Dorofeyev was a leading scorer for Vegas last season with 35 goals.

Why It's Important?

This matchup is significant as it sets the tone for the upcoming NHL season for both teams. The Golden Knights, entering the game without any injuries, have a strategic advantage over the Kings, who are missing key players. The performance of new players like Anton Forsberg for the Kings and the debut of Mitch Marner, Colton Sissons, and Jeremy Lauzon for the Golden Knights could influence team dynamics and outcomes. The game also provides an early indication of how the teams might perform throughout the season, impacting their standings and playoff prospects.

What's Next?

Following this game, both teams will continue to adjust their strategies and lineups based on player performances and injury recoveries. The Kings will need to manage their roster carefully to compensate for the absence of Perry and Burroughs, while the Golden Knights will aim to capitalize on their full-strength lineup. The outcome of this game could influence future matchups and the teams' approaches to the rest of the season.