Vegas Golden Knights Fans: Are We Spoiled?
Are we Vegas Golden Knights fans spoiled? So, I’m talking to a buddy of mine the other night about the Vegas Golden Knights. He’s lamenting the fact that they had only won two of their past 10 games. Basically, I’m halfway defending the team by saying that all pro sports teams go through slumps.
Furthermore, there are some key Golden Knights out with injuries. For example, our Stanley Cup-winning goalie, Adin Hill. In addition, our all-star defenseman, Shea Theodore. Plus, William Karlsson, one of the best two-way centers in the entire league. William Carrier too.
That’s when it dawned on me. Some of us Vegas Golden Knights fans are a little spoiled. After all, this team was born just over six years ago. To become champions that quickly is almost unheard of.
And yet, here we are, expecting them to win every game. As soon as they lose their grip on first place in the Pacific Division, we’re wondering if there will be trades or firings to shake up the team.
Here’s How Difficult It Is To Repeat As Stanley Cup Champions
But do we all understand how difficult it is to repeat as Stanley Cup Champions? Sure, back before the salary cap there were dynasties. The Montreal Canadiens would win five consecutive championships in the late 1950’s. Both Montreal and the Toronto Maple Leafs would win multiple Cups in the 1960’s. Subsequently, Montreal would win four more titles in the late 1970’s. Then the New York Islanders won four-in-a-row in the early 1980’s. The Edmonton Oilers had a great run of five Stanley Cup wins between 1984-1990.
However, since the salary cap was implemented in 2005, only two teams have won back-to-back Stanley Cups. The Pittsburgh Penguins in 2016 and 2017. Then, the Tampa Bay Lightning repeated in 2020 and 2021. That’s how difficult it is to repeat as Stanley Cup Champions.
Are Golden Knights Fans Spoiled? Imagine Rooting For Some Other NHL Teams
Likewise, do we Vegas Golden Knights fans understand the pain that fans of other teams are enduring? Consider the Toronto Maple Leafs. That storied franchise hasn’t even made the Stanley Cup Finals since 1967! I’m sure their fans look at us and shake their heads. How could a six-year old franchise win the Stanley Cup before our team?
Similarly, I have a good friend who was born and raised in British Columbia, Canada. He’s been a Vancouver Canucks fan all his life. That’s the team that is in first place in the Pacific Division ahead of the Golden Knights. Sure, his team made the Stanley Cup Finals in 1982 and 1994. But they’ve never sipped champagne from that chalice. I’m sure he’s a little envious of our favorite team’s success.
In conclusion, I’m not saying we should let our guys off the hook. I’m sure each player would love to taste the thrill of winning the Stanley Cup again this year. I’m just saying it’s a long season. And, as long as Vegas makes the playoffs, anything can happen. Can you say: “REPEAT!!”