Quick Read
- Kai Uchacz, 22, has been recalled by the Vegas Golden Knights from their AHL affiliate, the Henderson Silver Knights.
- This marks Uchacz’s first NHL recall, and he is expected to make his NHL debut this week, likely against the Vancouver Canucks.
- He recorded 21 goals and 50 points in 107 AHL games for Henderson.
- The recall is part of roster adjustments due to injuries to key Golden Knights players like Brett Howden and Brandon Saad.
- Uchacz was signed by the Golden Knights in 2024 after going undrafted, following a successful junior career with the Red Deer Rebels.
LAS VEGAS (Azat TV) – The Vegas Golden Knights have initiated a significant roster change, recalling 22-year-old forward Kai Uchacz from their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Henderson Silver Knights. This move, announced on Thursday, February 5, 2026, positions Uchacz for his potential National Hockey League (NHL) debut this week, as the team navigates a challenging period marked by key player injuries and strategic adjustments.
Uchacz’s promotion is a direct response to the Golden Knights’ need for depth, particularly on their fourth line, and represents a major milestone in the young player’s career. His arrival coincides with the demotion of center Tanner Laczynski and defenseman Dylan Coghlan back to Henderson, underscoring the team’s ongoing efforts to optimize its lineup.
Uchacz’s Path to the NHL Debut
Kai Uchacz, who stands at 6’2″ and weighs 209 lbs, has spent the last season and a half honing his skills with the Henderson Silver Knights. During his tenure in the AHL, he has demonstrated considerable offensive prowess, accumulating 21 goals and 50 points across 107 professional games. This consistent performance earned him his inaugural NHL recall, placing him on the cusp of playing at the sport’s highest level.
Undrafted in the NHL, Uchacz’s journey to professional hockey has been notable. He was signed by the Golden Knights in 2024 out of the Western Hockey League (WHL), where he played for the Red Deer Rebels. His time in junior hockey culminated in him serving as captain for the Rebels during the 2023-24 season, a testament to his leadership qualities and on-ice development.
From Junior Challenges to NHL Opportunity
Uchacz’s early career was not without its obstacles. While with the Seattle Thunderbirds in the WHL, he faced a suspension following incidents involving racial taunting. After completing anti-racism training, he returned to the league, demonstrating resilience and commitment to his sport. His subsequent successful three-season stint with the Red Deer Rebels showcased a mature player ready to contribute at a higher level, ultimately leading to his professional contract and now, his NHL opportunity.
His expected debut will likely be against the Vancouver Canucks, offering him an immediate chance to prove his capabilities in an NHL setting. This moment is not only a personal achievement for Uchacz but also a critical opportunity for the Golden Knights to assess his potential impact on their roster.
Roster Shake-Up Amidst Golden Knights Injuries
The recall of Uchacz is part of a broader series of roster adjustments necessitated by several key players currently on injured reserve. The Golden Knights are currently without forwards Brett Howden, Jonas Røndbjerg, Brandon Saad, and Colton Sissons. These absences have created openings for emerging talent like Uchacz to step in and contribute.
The demotion of Tanner Laczynski, who had played nine games for Vegas this season, recording two assists and an average ice time of 10:13 per game, further illustrates the team’s strategic realignment. Dylan Coghlan was also sent back to Henderson for additional playing time. With these changes, the Golden Knights now have 12 healthy forwards available for their upcoming matchups, with Uchacz expected to fill a vital role on the fourth line.
The Golden Knights’ decision to bring up Kai Uchacz reflects a calculated move to inject new energy and skill into their lineup while managing significant injury challenges, highlighting the dynamic nature of NHL roster management in the face of adversity.