Vegas Golden Knights General Manager Kelly McCrimmon addressed the media this morning, confirming that team captain Mark Stone has been cleared for full-contact practice and will participate fully in upcoming team activities. While McCrimmon refrained from specifying Stone’s availability for Game 1 of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs against Dallas, indications suggest a positive trajectory in that direction.
This announcement follows the recent clearance of Stone to practice in a non-contact capacity, marking significant progress in his recovery journey since sustaining a lacerated spleen on February 20 against the Nashville Predators.
Stone, a 31-year-old forward, has demonstrated exceptional performance throughout the season, amassing 16 goals and 53 points in 56 games with the Golden Knights.
Kelly McCrimmon says Mark Stone has been cleared for full contact, and will be a full participant in practice.
Didn’t say he’ll play Game 1, but it looks like it’s tracking that way.
— Jesse Granger (@JesseGranger_) April 20, 2024
Originally acquired from the Ottawa Senators in 2019, Stone has been a pivotal figure for the Golden Knights, notably leading the team to its first Stanley Cup championship in 2023. His impactful contributions include 24 points in 22 playoff games during their championship run.
Drafted 178th overall in the 2010 NHL Draft, Stone has established himself as a formidable presence on the ice, accumulating 212 goals and 567 points over 640 career games spanning 12 regular seasons with the Senators and Golden Knights. Additionally, he has notched 34 goals and 74 points in 95 playoff appearances.
With the regular season concluding with a 45-29-8 record and 98 points, the Golden Knights are poised to commence their playoff campaign against the Dallas Stars on Monday, April 22, in the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
