Jack Eichel cleared for contact for first time since surgery

This marks the first time Eichel has practiced with the Golden Knights since they acquired him in a trade with the Buffalo Sabres in November. 

Vegas head coach Peter DeBoer acknowledged there is no set date for Eichel's return, but that his participation in practice is the start of his return-to-play process. 

Eichel, 25, had disc replacement surgery in November to repair a neck injury he sustained last March. The former second overall draft pick was at odds with the Sabres over the type of surgery he would get on his neck and remained at a standoff with the team before being traded to Vegas.

The Golden Knights currently sit in first place in the Pacific Division with 57 points and, barring an otherworldly collapse, look primed to make the playoffs this spring. Should Eichel return this season, he could make his first playoff appearance since entering the league.