LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — Monday and Tuesday select Vegas Golden Knights players were available to the media. Head Coach Bruce Cassidy, Tomas Hertl, Rasmus Andersson who were all in Italy for the Olympics hit a number of topics surrounding Team USA beating Canada and winning Gold at the Milan Cortina 2026 Olympic Games.

Vegas Golden Knights (27-16-14, in the Pacific Division) vs. Los Angeles Kings (23-19-14, in the Pacific Division)

Los Angeles; Wednesday, 10 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Kings -116, Golden Knights -104; over/under is 5.5

BOTTOM LINE: The Los Angeles Kings head into a matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights after losing three games in a row.

Los Angeles is 23-19-14 overall and 5-3-8 against the Pacific Division. The Kings have gone 18-1-7 in games they score at least three goals.

Vegas is 9-4-4 against the Pacific Division and 27-16-14 overall. The Golden Knights have given up 173 goals while scoring 190 for a +17 scoring differential.

The teams play Wednesday for the fourth time this season. The Golden Knights won 4-1 in the last matchup.

TOP PERFORMERS: Adrian Kempe has 20 goals and 26 assists for the Kings. Andrei Kuzmenko has four goals and one assist over the past 10 games

Jack Eichel has 21 goals and 47 assists for the Golden Knights. Pavel Dorofeyev has scored six goals with two assists over the past 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Kings: 4-3-3, averaging 2.3 goals, 3.8 assists, 4.4 penalties and 11.5 penalty minutes while giving up 2.8 goals per game.

Golden Knights: 3-5-2, averaging 3.1 goals, five assists, 2.5 penalties and 5.8 penalty minutes while giving up 3.2 goals per game.

At the NFL Combine, John Spytek stepped to the podium with clarity, confidence, and a clear vision for the future of the Las Vegas Raiders.

Addressing a wide range of topics — from quarterback Fernando Mendoza to the organization’s blueprint for the 2026 NFL Draft — Spytek delivered measured, thoughtful answers that offered insight into where the Silver and Black are headed.

On Fernando Mendoza

One of the more intriguing topics was quarterback Fernando Mendoza, a name that has generated buzz in draft conversations. Spytek acknowledged the talent and upside Mendoza brings to the table but emphasized the Raiders’ evaluation process.

He highlighted traits the organization values most at the quarterback position: leadership, processing speed, toughness, and the ability to elevate teammates. While Spytek avoided tipping his hand on specific draft intentions, his tone suggested the Raiders are doing their due diligence on every top signal-caller available.

Rather than focusing solely on arm strength or highlight-reel plays, Spytek stressed consistency, decision-making under pressure, and long-term development — all critical factors in determining whether a quarterback can become the face of a franchise.

Building the 2026 Draft Board

Beyond Mendoza, Spytek painted a broader picture of what the Raiders are seeking in the 2026 NFL Draft.

He repeatedly referenced “competition” and “culture,” making it clear that talent alone won’t earn a spot in Las Vegas. The Raiders are prioritizing players who love football, demonstrate resilience, and fit the physical identity the team wants to establish.

Spytek also discussed positional value and roster construction, noting that building through the trenches remains foundational. Strengthening both the offensive and defensive lines appears to be a key emphasis as the Raiders aim to become more consistent week-to-week.

Flexibility was another theme. Spytek spoke about maintaining draft capital and being prepared for multiple scenarios — whether that means moving up, trading back, or letting the board fall naturally.

A Clear Organizational Vision

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from Spytek’s media session was alignment. There was a strong sense that the front office has a defined plan, one rooted in discipline and long-term sustainability rather than quick fixes.

Spytek didn’t offer flashy promises or bold predictions. Instead, he reinforced a steady approach: trust the evaluations, prioritize character, and build a roster that can compete in January.

With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, the Raiders’ direction under John Spytek is becoming clearer — calculated, culture-driven, and focused on finding cornerstone pieces that can return the franchise to consistent contention.