When the Las Vegas Golden Knights completed a trade with the Buffalo Sabres in November to acquire Jack Eichel, it seemed possible that Eichel would not return this season with his neck injury. Not only has he returned, Eichel is already making a difference on the ice for Las Vegas.

On Sunday, Eichel scored his first goal of the season for the Golden Knights. He finished the win vs. the San Jose Sharks with a goal and an assist. He logged over 18 minutes of ice time, showing he is ready to take on a full load. He now has three points in three games for his new club after picking up an assist the game prior.

Eichel was the second overall pick in the 2015 NHL Draft. He only played one season in college, at national powerhouse Boston University. That season, Eichel led the Terriers all the way to the National Championship game, but lost to Providence, 4-3. Eichel did however win the Hobey Baker Memorial Award given to the nation's best player each year.

Eichel hit the ground running in the NHL as a youngster. At the age of 18, Eichel began his pro career with the Sabres. He scored 24 goals his rookie season, and only ascended from there. However, he suffered a serious neck injury and was at odds with the Sabres organization on how to handle it. That prompted the trade to Las Vegas.

The Golden Knights made it all the way to the Stanley Cup Finals in their inaugural season. Ultimately, they lost to Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals. But Las Vegas has still been a threat. With Eichel on board and playing well, he gives the Golden Knights a player that can put them over the top.