Head coach Ryan Craig and the Henderson Silver Knights are off to a commendable 9-7-1 start this season, marking a significant improvement from last year’s 4-12-0 opening stretch. This year’s success can be attributed to a blend of veteran leadership and a promising influx of youthful talent in the lineup.
In the inaugural edition of the Silver Knights Prospect Notebook, attention turns to three standout players who are driving the team’s early momentum, including one who has made a notable impact at the NHL level.
Bowman Making Waves in the NHL
Braeden Bowman, an undrafted free agent, has quickly emerged as a notable story this season. Since his call-up to the Vegas Golden Knights on November 12, the 22-year-old has seized every opportunity, amassing four goals and six points in just seven NHL games.
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Head coach Ryan Craig expressed his pride in Bowman’s performance. “We’ve supported him. That’s our job here, is to support the player but the credit goes to him. From what I had seen, he played really good against the Islanders,” Craig said.
Bowman’s first NHL goal, scored against the St. Louis Blues on November 17, was celebrated by his former teammates. Craig noted, “I think our guys were pretty excited, it kind of happened during warm-ups.” For the time being, Bowman remains with the Golden Knights, and his successful stint has exceeded initial expectations.
Trevor Connelly Shines After Injury Return
Trevor Connelly is another key player finding his stride after recovery from an offseason injury that sidelined him during the Golden Knights’ 2025 Rookie Camp and the initial weeks of the AHL season. Now back on the ice, he has quickly made an impact with five points in four games.
“When he has the puck, you can see the skill,” said Craig. Connelly, the 2024 first-round pick, has demonstrated poise and quickly earned the respect of his teammates with his dynamic play. “He’s a talented kid, he plays hard and he’s fun to watch,” remarked Jaycob Megna. With his promising start, a future call-up to the NHL seems plausible if he continues to develop.
Lukas Cormier Leads the Pack on Defense
Lukas Cormier is among several young players, including Connelly, who have made a significant impact early this season. The 23-year-old defenseman has been instrumental in the Silver Knights’ improved performance, leading all Henderson defensemen with four goals and 14 points in 16 games.
Craig highlighted the importance of Cormier’s contributions, stating, “It’s a product of what we have with those guys back there. Especially those four guys can get the puck going north.” As Cormier approaches 150 AHL games, he is evolving into a reliable offensive force from the blue line, further contributing to the Silver Knights’ success.
In Brief
Carter Hart made his Silver Knights debut on November 15 and has a record of 1-1-0, alongside a 2.55 goals-against average and .875 save percentage in just one additional appearance. Eligible to return to the NHL on December 2, Hart’s time in Henderson may be limited with Adin Hill currently sidelined.
The defense has also been bolstered by the veteran trio of Jérémy Davies, Megna, and Dylan Coghlan, who have combined for nine goals and 30 points in 46 games, providing a reliable offensive push from the blue line. Meanwhile, Carl Lindbom, who has stepped in as the primary netminder for Vegas with Hart and Hill unavailable, is still seeking his first NHL win, currently holding a record of 0-4-2. Despite this, Lindbom’s composed performance has shown that he is capable of competing at the NHL level.
As the season progresses, the Silver Knights look poised to build on their strong start, with both established players and emerging talents contributing to their upward momentum.
