DALLAS — The temptation is to bring up Reilly Smith’s goal from the opening minute of the second period Sunday at Calgary as proof that the Golden Knights’ top line is clicking again.
Granted, Smith’s backhand to finish during a 2-on-1 featured a slick breakout and the intricate movement through the neutral zone Smith often executed with linemates William Karlsson and Jonathan Marchessault during the Knights’ inaugural season.
But go back one game.
It’s the second period in Vancouver, moments after the Canucks cut the Knights’ lead to 5-2.
Smith received a pass at the blue line from defenseman Nate Schmidt and softly sent the puck toward the corner before absorbing a hit near the wall.