During the 2017 NHL Entry Draft, forward Cody Glass made history. Called at sixth overall, he became the first player ever drafted by the Vegas Golden Knights. In that same draft, Vegas also had the 13th and 15th overall selections. Since that first round, Glass is the only one remaining as the others became trade bait.

There were rumors that when Vegas looked to acquire defenseman Erik Karlsson from Ottawa, they backed off because the Senators’ management insisted on Glass being a part of the deal. The next season, they were content to trade Erik Brannstrom, their top defensive prospect and the 15th selection, to Ottawa. So what makes Glass so special and untouchable to Vegas?

The 20 year-old had a heck of a year last season. As Captain of the Portland Winterhawks in the WHL, he posted 69 points in just 38 games. Following the end of Portland’s season, he went pro, joining the AHL’s Chicago Wolves. In six regular season games, the forward had five points. It’s in the playoffs where Glass really shined, however.

During Chicago’s run to the Calder Cup Finals, Glass put up 15 points in 22 games. He played prominent minutes on a team littered with AHL veterans and experienced prospects. The physical play of the playoffs didn’t seem to bother him that much, either.

Approaching the 2019-20 season, Glass has a real shot at making the Golden Knights‘ opening night roster. For Glass to do so, he’ll need to grab a top-nine spot, likely on the third line. Vegas’s top-six seems solidified following William Karlsson signing his extension. However, Glass could work his way up the depth chart like he did with the Wolves.

Roster Ramifications

With no other roster moves, a third-line with Glass would look like this:

Glass – Eakin – Tuch

This line has a solid blend of grit, size, skill, and finish. It also can’t be understated how important it is that Glass is on his entry-level contract. With a cap-hit of just $863,333 (per Capfriendly.com) Glass could provide Vegas with the biggest bang for their buck. So what happens if he excels in his first NHL season? He makes somebody else expendable is what.

A top line of Glass, Karlsson, and Jonathan Marchessault could give opposing offenses all they can handle. What happens with Reilly Smith then? Sure, he could provide solid depth on the third-line. However, Vegas could create some necessary cap space by moving Smith or Eakin.

Basically, Cody Glass is the big wild card entering next season. Worst case scenario, he plays top-line minutes with the Wolves. Best case sees him doing the same with the Golden Knights instead. Gerard Gallant and the Vegas coaching staff will give him every opportunity to show he belongs in the NHL. It’s up to Glass to make good on the potential that made him untouchable over the last two seasons.

He’s already a part of Golden Knights history. Now it’s time for him to become a big part of the team’s present and future.

I’m a Michigan Man, born and raised. I live for hockey and the Detroit Red Wings, but I can get down with any game/sport as long as it’s competitive. In my free time, I drink Dr. Pepper, play video games, and post quality stuff on social media. Thanks for the read!