Golden Knights defeat Kings in preseason opener under Ryan Craig

ONTARIO, Calif. — The Vegas Golden Knights opened their preseason schedule with a 4-2 victory over the Los Angeles Kings at Toyota Arena on Saturday, marking Ryan Craig’s first game as head coach of the NHL club. The lineup featured many players Craig has worked with in the American Hockey League, primarily from Henderson. It provided an early chance for several of Craig’s former players to showcase their development. Defenseman Viliam Kmec and forward Raphael Lavoie netted goals 52 seconds apart early in the opening period. Vegas had managed only one shot through the first 18 minutes. Forward Jackson Hallum tallied twice in the third frame, including the go-ahead goal with 5:31 remaining. He added an empty‑net marker with 1:23 left to seal the win. Goaltender Adin Hill turned aside 17 shots in his first start since April 9. Hill and playoff starter Carter Hart are each slated for two preseason appearances.