Vegas Golden Knights forward Chandler Stephenson's first All-Star selection was long overdue, but nonetheless, he's in Sunrise, Florida and ready for a fun-filled weekend.
The eight-year NHL veteran is still letting it all sink in, as it has always been a goal of his to make the exclusive event.
Since being traded to Vegas three seasons ago, Stephenson has thrived, and now, he's having the best season of his career (44 points in 51 games).
"I think just getting the opportunity and just getting the chance to play, [I] just felt like myself, and they've really given me an opportunity in Vegas, and I just tried to run with it," Stephenson said at the 2023 Honda NHL All-Star media day on Thursday. "It was always a dream to be here, but for it to be a reality is something you can't really wrap your head around until probably it's passed and you're kind of reminiscing on it."
Stephenson was told he would be joining the Pacific Division team on Monday. He is replacing Seattle Kraken forward Matty Beniers, who suffered an injury from a big hit last week.
"[G]etting the call and everything until this point has kind of been a pinch-me moment, to be honest," Stephenson said. "And yeah, I don't think that it will go away until I'm reflecting and looking back on it. ... It's too bad that Matty was injured and I got the call to fill in for him. But yeah, I think still just to just be here and experience it and to enjoy the weekend, it's going to be awesome for myself, and family and the little guy."
The 2023 Honda NHL All-Star Game is set to begin Saturday at 3 p.m. EST, noon PST.
Stephenson and the Golden Knights will resume their 2022-23 campaign when they face the Nashville Predators on Tuesday. It will be the second meeting between the two clubs this season.
Follow along with VGK Today for live updates throughout the contest.
More must-reads: