RJ’s Golden Knights experts make predictions on 2019-20 season
Ben Gotz, Beat reporter
46-31-7
99 points
Second in Pacific Division
I was too low on the Golden Knights entering year one and too high before year two, so let’s hope I split the difference for this season. There won’t be an early slump or late-season malaise, and the Knights will have a record more befitting their status as Stanley Cup contenders.
Ed Graney, Columnist
45-27-10
100 points
Second in Pacific Division
I’m not sure the losses of Pierre-Edouard Bellemare on the penalty kill and what would have been a healthy Erik Haula won’t hurt more than folks believe. I’m also not sure Calgary and San Jose are any worse than last season. I am sure Marc-Andre Fleury needs more rest during the season. Playoffs for the Knights, yes. Division banner, nyet.
Adam Hill, Beat reporter
47-27-8
102 points
First in Pacific Division
The pieces are in place to make a run for the division title, particularly with the Flames and Sharks likely to take a step back. The Knights looked like a legitimate title threat after Mark Stone was acquired at the trade deadline last season, but Marc-Andre Fleury’s injury took a toll down the stretch.
Ron Kantowski, Columnist
41-32-9
91 points
Third in Pacific Division
Last year I predicted the Knights would finish with 92 points, and that was one under their total of 93. So I guess that qualifies me for the showcase and a Game 7 cross-check that should have been a two-minute minor. If that. But if there’s no crying over bad calls in hockey, then it will be up to the Golden Knights to exact revenge in a manner they see fit. Another solid season and a playoff rematch with San Jose would just about do it.
David Schoen, Beat reporter
47-27-8
102 points
First in Pacific Division
This feels like that scene in “Swingers” when Vince Vaughn stands on the restaurant table and shouts, “Our little boy is all growsed up tonight!” The Knights suffered through their “terrible twos” and emerged ticked off and ready to kick sand on the rest of the division. It remains to be seen whether there’s enough organizational depth to overcome injuries, but another Cup run isn’t out of the question.
Cassie Soto, Web anchor
46-27-9
101 points
First in Pacific Division
The controversial ending to last season is being used as motivation by Knights players. That, plus the fact that a huge chunk of the team returns this season puts Vegas in position to make a deep postseason run. Unless, of course, a major is called on one of the guys in gold. Third time’s a charm.
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