Movement within the Golden Knights organization begins ahead of the trade deadline

On Tuesday morning, general manager Kelly McCrimmon announced the recall of forward Raphael Lavoie from the Henderson Silver Knights.

The move comes at a critical time for head coach Bruce Cassidy, who is currently navigating an injury to captain Mark Stone. Stone left Sunday's 5-0 loss to the Penguins after the first period.

Lavoie, 25, has been on a tear in the AHL, recording 11 points in his last 10 games. The 6-foot-4 winger brings a heavy shot and much-needed size to a Vegas lineup that has looked uncharacteristically stagnant during a 4-7-2 slump since the Olympic break.

The Golden Knights currently sit atop the Pacific Division with 70 points, but their lead is down to a single point over the Anaheim Ducks. McCrimmon knows that "solid execution" from his depth players is non-negotiable if the team wants to fend off a charging Edmonton squad.

This isn't Lavoie's first look in the Show. Over his NHL career, he has appeared in 16 games between Edmonton and Vegas, though he is still hunting for his first career point. His current hot streak in Henderson suggests he's ready for a middle-six role.

Cassidy is searching for a spark for a power play that has occasionally gone cold. Lavoie's ability to find lanes and use his reach could provide a "clean slate" for a second unit that needs to contribute more offensive output.

With the March 6 deadline just three days away, this recall serves as an audition. If Lavoie can provide a "bump," McCrimmon may focus his trade assets on the blue line rather than hunting for another expensive winger.

The road trip continues tomorrow in Detroit, making this a pivotal 48-hour window for the young forward. For a team that lives by the "Next Man Up" mantra, Lavoie is the latest soldier called to the front.

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