Golden Knights defenseman Brayden McNabb (3) warms up before a game against the Utah Mammoth in game four of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
Golden Knights defenseman Brayden McNabb (3) warms up before a game against the Utah Mammoth in game four of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
As the Vegas Golden Knights faced the Carolina Hurricanes in this year’s Stanley Cup finals series, Brayden McNabb was terrific for the Golden Knights. As he returned to Game 3, the defenseman was applauded after returning from his Game 2 injury.
After taking a puck to the face in Game 2, McNabb skated off the ice to receive medical attention. Fortunately, he seems well and returned to play a long stretch in Game 3. His teammates, Jack Eichel and Shea Theodore, praised McNabb for his toughness and endurance, per an official X post by the Vegas Golden Knights.
“I don't think you can say enough good things about him, his courage, and his heart. They don't make a lot of people like him anymore. He's just such a selfless human being with so much guts,“ said Eichel.
Truly, to return to the ice days after getting your visor clipped by a puck traveling 87 Mph showcases how much he wants to contribute to the Golden Knights' performances.
The puck in question was sent McNabb’s way by Hurricanes forward Nikolaj Ehlers during Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final on June 4. The defenseman left the ice and did not return. Canadian sports journalist Elliotte Friedman reported on June 6 that McNabb received 20 to 30 stitches.
He returned for Game 3 after the injury on June 6. Vegas forward Tomas Hertl commended his resilience.
“He's an absolute warrior. Everybody saw what happened last game, what he went through, a slap shot straight to the face. Not many people would come back, probably even next season. And he's back in two days playing an amazing game.”
McNabb’s postseason performance really has been amazing.
Brayden McNabb’s Performance in the Hurricanes’ Playoff Series
McNabb has been a force to be reckoned with in this Finals series against the Carolina Hurricanes. The defenseman gave a great offensive performance during Game 1.
The defenseman, who is better known for penalty killing, stepped in and provided three assists to the Golden Knights' offense. His contribution helped Vegas establish a 5-4 lead to beat Carolina.
His first assist came in the first period, when his pass found Shea Theodore, who scored past the goaltender. 30 seconds into the second period, McNabb again assisted Ivan Barbashev to score, equalizing the score.
His final assist was to Brett Howden early in the third period, to give the Golden Knights a 4-3 lead.
McNabb’s departure in Game 2 saw Vegas blow a 2-0 lead going into the third period. The Knights conceded three goals in his absence and went on to lose 3-4 in overtime.
Game 3 saw him play 35 minutes and produce another offensive play with two assists. McNabb is clearly an invaluable piece of the Vegas roster.
What do you think of Brayden McNabb returning for Game 3 after the injury to his face in Game 2? Let us know in the comments.
