WA-TOR-VGK-WhitecloudHitKnies Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Zach Whitecloud returned to practice today in a red non-contact jersey. The 28-year-old defenseman has been out since Nov. 23 when he suffered a lower-body injury against the Montreal Canadiens. He played in 21 games before sustaining the injury scoring a goal and an assist. A few nights before the injury occurred, Whitecloud laid a controversial hit on Toronto Maple Leafs' Matthew Knies. There was a lot of chatter about whether the hit was suspension worthy but ultimately the NHL Department of Player Safety deemed the hit legal. Whitecloud won't be returning tonight against the Dallas Stars but it's a step in the right direction for the Brandon, Manitoba native. The next step for Whitecloud is to practice with contact and work his way back into the lineup. After tonight, the Golden Knights are off for five days until they play the Winnipeg Jets, giving Whitecloud ample time to get his body ready for game action. He's expected to accompany the team on their upcoming three game road trip and they Golden Knights predict he will make his return at some point. Make sure you bookmark THN's Vegas Golden Knights site [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/vegas-golden-knights/] for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.
