The Vegas Golden Knights sought a lasting offensive change, potentially found in reuniting Mitch Marner and Jack Eichel. On Thursday, Marner and Eichel returned to the top line during practice and played together in the following game.
For Golden Knights fans, this pairing seems like an obvious move. Marner is a skilled playmaker with a remarkable ability to set up teammates for success. He excels in various roles, including playing from the home position.
This reunion brings together two of the NHL's most dynamic players on the same line. Adding Ivan Barbashev, who understands Eichel's style, is expected to improve the line’s performance.
According to MoneyPuck, the trio ranks 11th on the Golden Knights in expected goals percentage (xGoals%) at 50% with a minimum of 10 minutes played. The line seems capable of producing more given Marner's playmaking skills and Eichel's leadership.
However, Marner has been thriving alongside Tomas Hertl and Pavel Dorofeyev, with their trio posting a 71.9% xGoals%. This season is still young, and that group has only played seven games, allowing time for adjustments as the offense seeks to find its rhythm.
Marner's addition to the top line is promising for Vegas. As with famous duos like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce on the Kansas City Chiefs, effective chemistry between star players can elevate a team’s offense significantly.
"You have a playmaker in Marner and his uncanny ability to set up his teammates for success."
"The reunion marks a return of two of the most dynamic players in today's NHL on the same line."
Author's summary: The return of Mitch Marner and Jack Eichel to the Golden Knights’ top line, alongside Ivan Barbashev, promises to revitalize their offense with proven playmaking and chemistry.