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Golden Knights deal with key injuries

June 12, 2026

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The Vegas Golden Knights are facing significant challenges ahead of Game 6 against the Carolina Hurricanes, primarily due to the potential loss of center William Karlsson. According to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Karlsson suffered an apparent upper-body injury during the second period of Game 5 after a hit from Hurricanes defenseman Sean Walker.

He left the arena for further testing and is unlikely to participate in the crucial matchup, as coach John Tortorella noted, 'He's an important piece to us... We've got to find a way.' Karlsson's absence is particularly concerning given his pivotal role as a two-way player and key contributor in the playoffs, having tallied four points during the Stanley Cup Final.

The Golden Knights, who dropped Game 5 with a score of 4-2 and now trail the series 3-2, may need to adjust their lineup, possibly moving either Brett Howden or Mitch Marner back to center. Teammate Tomas Hertl expressed the emotional impact of losing a player like Karlsson, emphasizing the need for the remaining players to step up.

The Golden Knights will host Game 6 at T-Mobile Arena, needing a win to avoid elimination.

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