The Vegas Golden Knights have made significant roster changes by recalling goaltender Carl Lindbom and defenseman Jaycob Megna from the AHL Henderson Silver Knights. This decision comes as the team contends with injuries and a limited salary cap space.
Roster Adjustments and Injury Management
The Golden Knights had only one available roster spot, which was created by placing defenseman Noah Hanifin on injured reserve. Hanifin has been sidelined since the season opener due to an undisclosed injury.
- Carl Lindbom: Recalled to serve as a goaltender due to an injury to Adin Hill.
- Jaycob Megna: Added as an extra defenseman for the ongoing road trip.
- Noah Hanifin: Placed on injured reserve to free up a roster spot.
Injury and Cap Situation
Mark Stone is currently on standard injured reserve, with a wrist injury affecting his availability. If he remains out for at least ten games, the team can consider transferring him to long-term injured reserve (LTIR), which will grant additional cap flexibility.
The team’s current cap space stands at approximately $310,275, which is very tight under NHL regulations. Utilizing the LTIR option could increase their available pool by about $3.5 million.
Goaltending and Performance Insights
Adin Hill left a recent game early due to a lower-body injury, leading to Lindbom’s recall. It marks a critical moment for Lindbom, who has shown impressive potential.
- Lindbom: A seventh-round draft pick in 2021, he had a successful year in the AHL last season with a 2.65 GAA and .912 SV% over 36 games.
- Current Performance: This season, Lindbom has an outstanding 1.00 GAA and .958 SV% in two games, indicating readiness for NHL action.
While Akira Schmid remains undefeated, his recent stats show a .899 SV% and 2.57 GAA, which may motivate the coaching staff to give Lindbom playing time.
Defenseman Jaycob Megna’s Role
In addition, Megna joins the team while they are on the road. He has experience, having played 193 NHL games, and signed a two-year, $1.6 million contract with the Knights in the offseason.
- Performance in AHL: Megna has recorded one assist and a plus-two rating in four games with Henderson.
- Current Status: With Ben Hutton performing well, Megna may not see immediate ice time unless further injuries occur.
The Golden Knights face challenges as they navigate player injuries and roster moves. The call-ups of Lindbom and Megna could provide much-needed support as they continue their road trip in Florida and Carolina.
