Lawless: Joy in The Fortress

A fanbase is its own unique organism which grows and dips and loves and hates. The people in the stands who wear team jerseys and put their love, money and time into a team cannot be controlled. They're the heart of the community which forms around a pro sports franchise. And the heart wants what the heart wants. Fans fall in and out of love with their team. It's a natural and never-ending evolution. There are honeymoon stages and times of frustration. It's just the way it works. In a competitive space there are both highs and lulls.

This version of the Golden Knights sparks hope and love. The likeability quotient is high with this group. And it's growing by the game right now.
Friday night, as the Vegas Golden Knights rode Adin Hill's brilliance to find a 4-3 shootout win over the visiting New Jersey Devils, the folks in the Fortress showed their heart. It's been growing for a while now and the last three games the arena has been brimming with enthusiasm and appreciation.
As time ran out on a Devils power play in Friday night's third period, the crowd paid off Hill and his penalty killers with a roar heard round the NHL. The Golden Knights needed the shootout to get two points but climbed back into top spot in the Western Conference and held fast to their lead in the Pacific Division.
The vibe in Vegas during the Golden Knights' inaugural season is forever lost at sea in a corked bottle. Circumstances conspired and combined to create a bond between a city and a team which can never be duplicated. But that doesn't mean other VGK versions are incapable of working their way into the hearts of Las Vegas. This season's team has its own unique essence and connection to the fanbase. It's undeniable. And it's growing.
Ivan the Terrific
Newcomer Ivan Barbashev has three points in three games since joining the Golden Knights. And his linemates Jack Eichel and Jonathan Marchessault are finding the back of the net.
Barbashev's small game offense has created a chemistry between Eichel and Marchessault which had proven elusive prior to his arrival. The dots are connecting right now and the line has proven effective at both ends of the ice.
Blueger? Blueger? Blueger?
Hopefully the above headline isn't too obscure. If it is, find a way to watch Ferris Bueller's Day Off. You'll soon understand and thank me for the movie tip. Win, win.
Fourth line center Teddy Blueger played his first game for the Golden Knights on Friday and immediately showed why he has been coveted around the league for some time now.
Fourth line centers like Blueger are hard to find. Fourth line centers with speed like Blueger are unicorns. Blueger is both fast and quick. He's got a high top end in full flight and can be a waterbug in small spaces. He's smart, aggressive and physical.