Golden Knights Key Defenseman Close To Returning

According to Vegas Golden Knights owner Bill Foley, defenseman Alec Martinez is very close to returning. However, because he is in COVID-19 protocol, his return will be delayed until he exits it.

The Golden Knights certainly miss Martinez in their lineup. The 34-year-old hasn't played since November 11th's contest against the Minnesota Wild because of an upper-body injury. This makes the news of his close return very exciting to hear.

After an outstanding 32-point campaign in 53 games last season with the Golden Knights, they signed him to a three-year, $15,750,000 contract over the summer. In 11 games so far this season, he has three assists and a plus-3 rating.

Now that Martinez is very close to returning, Vegas will have to get creative to become cap compliant. With Max Pacioretty out long-term, don't be surprised to see them move the star winger to LTIR.