Ryan Craig to Face Tampa Bay as Golden Knights Coach
The Golden Knights host the Tampa Bay Lightning at T-Mobile Arena on October 20, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Hockey
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Vegas Golden Knights head coach Ryan Craig faces his former team, the Tampa Bay Lightning, for the first time as a head coach when they visit T-Mobile Arena on October 20, 2026. This marks a milestone for Craig, who is in his first season leading the Knights from behind the bench.
Why it matters
The matchup highlights the deep ties between the Golden Knights coaching staff and their league history, reflecting the transition of leadership within the franchise.
Ryan Craig played 184 of his 198 total NHL games with the Tampa Bay Lightning, including a 2005-06 rookie campaign where he notched 15 goals and 28 points. He transitioned to coaching after retiring in 2017, following six seasons as a Golden Knights assistant.
The players
Ryan Craig
Vegas Golden Knights head coach who previously played for the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Vegas Golden Knights
The local NHL franchise currently managed by Ryan Craig.
Tampa Bay Lightning
The NHL team that originally drafted Ryan Craig in 2002.
The details
Craig was originally selected by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2002 NHL Draft and spent four seasons with the club as a player. After his playing career ended in 2017, he eventually joined the Golden Knights organization, serving as an assistant coach for six seasons and leading the Henderson Silver Knights in the AHL. He now manages the Golden Knights roster and game planning as he faces his former team for the first time in his head coaching tenure.
Timeline
2002: Tampa Bay drafted Ryan Craig.
2005-2009: Craig played for the Lightning.
2017: Ryan Craig retired from hockey.
2023: Craig helped Vegas win the Stanley Cup.
October 20, 2026: Craig faces Lightning as head coach.
Beyond the Strip
This matchup arrives after Craig helped the organization secure the 2023 Stanley Cup championship during his tenure as an assistant. His transition to head coach continues the internal development path the team has prioritized since its inception.
Fans heading to the game at T-Mobile Arena on October 20 should prepare for heavy traffic and increased congestion around the resort corridor. Be sure to check parking availability and transit schedules well before the puck drops.
The takeaway
Follow the team's roster adjustments leading up to the October 20 game to see how Craig implements his strategy against his former franchise. Watch for official lineup announcements from the team in the days prior to the matchup.
Further reading
Keep up with team developments at Las Vegas Hockey.
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