Some Vegas Golden Knights fans were worried about the whereabouts of Noah Hanifin and Brayden McNabb. They were concerned that they'd be down two more defensemen heading into Game 4 against the Carolina Hurricanes. However, head coach John Tortorella put those fears to rest with a key injury update heading into Tuesday's game.
Tortorella says Hanifin and McNabb are both expected to be in the lineup tonight.
— SinBin.vegas (@SinBinVegas) June 9, 2026
Everyone knows about the puck that McNabb took to the face in Game 2. He came back in Game 3 with a full cage and added two assists in a thrilling double-overtime win. But people don't know about what happened to Hanifin, so here's a little scoop.
The Boston native took a nasty hit from Jordan Martinook in Game 3, leaving him laboring in the shoulder area. Neither defenseman was on the ice for Monday's practice, leaving fans wondering if everything was okay with the two.
But those fears are put to rest, for Vegas will get two key shot-blockers back for Game 4. The two defensemen combined for 258 blocked shots during the regular season, making them key lane cloggers. The Golden Knights will be better defensively because of it, taking away space and leaving the Hurricanes to fend for themselves.
Of course, some things must change to make this happen. First, the third period collapses must stop. Yes, Carolina is a pesky team that will do whatever it takes to win. But Vegas can't fall asleep at the wheel. Second, the Golden Knights must make clean exits in Game 4. Otherwise, they'll be stuck in the defensive zone all game.
If the Golden Knights can capitalize on having a healthy lineup in Game 4, they'll put themselves in a great position to win their second Stanley Cup. Vegas needs everyone on board for a big Game 4 at T-Mobile Arena on Tuesday. The Hurricanes don't plan on going away any time soon and the Golden Knights better have Hanifin and McNabb ready.
