Golden Knights activate Shea Theodore after 34-game absence

The Vegas Golden Knights have activated defenseman Shea Theodore off the LTIR (CapFriendly) as he is set to return from a 34-game absence. 

The 28-year-old was on a tear to start the season but suffered an upper-body injury and has not played since Nov. 22. Theodore didn’t play Monday but could dress Tuesday night when the Golden Knights take on the Nashville Predators. 

To make room for Theodore the Golden Knights have moved Jack Eichel to the LTIR (CapFriendly).

Theodore had four goals and 14 assists in 20 games to begin the season and looked poised to have a big year before the injury. Vegas has missed having Theodore in their top four as they have posted a 17-13-4 record in his absence.

His return will be a big addition for a team that currently holds a 31-17-6 record and sits in second place in the Pacific Division. Theodore has typically averaged between 21-23 minutes a game over the past few seasons and will likely move back into his role in the Golden Knights top four as well as on the team’s top power-play unit.

Theodore is in the sixth year of a seven-year, $36.4M contract and has remained very productive throughout the deal but has dealt with injuries over the last two seasons. 

If he can remain healthy over the next year he will be in line for a massive payday in the summer of 2025.