LAS VEGAS — The Stanley Cup Final returned to Las Vegas on Sunday with the Carolina Hurricanes one win away from the championship, while the Vegas Golden Knights entered Game 6 facing elimination and without one of their key forwards.
Golden Knights center William Karlsson was ruled out for Game 6 because of an injury suffered during Vegas' 4-2 loss in Game 5, coach John Tortorella said on Saturday. Carolina carried a 3-2 lead into the game and had an opportunity to clinch the best-of-seven series on the road.
Karlsson, a second-line center and a key contributor on both special teams and at even strength, had recorded three goals and six assists in 15 playoff games entering the contest, according to team and league statistics. Tortorella did not specify the nature of the injury and declined to discuss Karlsson's availability beyond Game 6. Reports indicated the injury appeared to involve his left arm, wrist or shoulder.
“When we lose Bill, it kind of screws things up,” Tortorella said following Game 5. “We’ve got to find a way.”
Karlsson left Thursday's game after a collision along the boards and did not return. His absence forced Vegas to consider adjustments down the middle, with Mitch Marner among the players capable of taking additional responsibilities at center.
The Hurricanes, meanwhile, entered the game with momentum after winning two straight contests to move within one victory of their first Stanley Cup title since 2006. Carolina's special teams had played a significant role in the series, while goaltender Brandon Bussi emerged as a key contributor during the final.
Neither team announced major lineup changes beyond Karlsson's absence before puck drop. Carolina sought to complete the series in six games, while Vegas aimed to force a decisive Game 7 in North Carolina.
As Game 6 began on Sunday night, the Hurricanes held a one-game advantage in the series, and the Golden Knights faced the challenge of extending their season without one of their most experienced forwards. Details regarding Karlsson's longer-term status remained unclear.
