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Golden Knights forward finding role

Originally posted on Dice City Sports
By Paul Delos Santos | Last updated Oct 29, 2024 6:59 PM ET

LAS VEGAS – Vegas Golden Knights forward Cole Schwindt only has 15 career NHL games to his name, but he is slowly carving out a role on the Golden Knights.

Schwindt seems to be a perfect fit for the left-wing position on the fourth line, alongside center Nicolas Roy and right winger Keegan Kolesar.

“That would be his type of line,” Vegas coach Bruce Cassidy said. “He’s a big body that suits that style, so let’s try him over there. I always want to put a young player in the best position to succeed. Good on him. He’s a kid who wants to play. It’s always better than not being in the press box, not playing. Smart guys figure it out. Good on him.”

Schwindt debuted on the line in a 5-0 victory against the Calgary Flames on Monday. He tallied two assists, upping his career point total to three.

“For me, it’s making sure I’m doing the right things to win,” Schwindt said. “Playing alongside those two guys today made it that much easier.”

Schwindt: I really enjoy a team win with the guys in this room. pic.twitter.com/wc0rifLLes

— Vegas Golden Knights (@GoldenKnights) October 29, 2024

While it’s only a one-game sample, Schwindt looked good in that role on the fourth line, known for its north-south, heavy forecheck, and direct style of play.

Schwindt has a bit of a scoring touch. He scored 48 goals with 62 assists in 218 American Hockey League games. Cassidy said playing with Kolesar and Roy might benefit him, as the duo has gone through their own growing pains in the NHL.

“He’s just playing with like-minded guys,” Cassidy said. “They have skill, but know they have to play more direct. Simply because that’s where they’ve had success. It doesn’t mean they won’t grow their game. … Nic’s has [grown]. ‘Koley’s’ on the verge. With Schwindt, I don’t know yet. We’re still in the infancy stages.”

Either way, 15 games in, Schwindt is staying focused on staying in the lineup and staying ready whenever he is needed.

Paul Delos Santos is the Las Vegas sports insider for Dice City Sports. Follow him on X at @PaulDelos_.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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