Golden Knights Illuminate Torch prior to thrilling ‘Monday Night Football’ clash with Raiders

The Al Davis Memorial Torch was created by the Raiders following the death of their former owner on Oct. 8, 2011. Since then, the team has held a ceremony to light the torch before every game.

Located at Allegiant Stadium, the torch is widely recognized as the largest freestanding 3D-printed structure in the world. However, the original torch, a gas-operated one that was first lit at the Raiders’ former home in Oakland, the Oakland Coliseum, remains eternally lit at the team’s headquarters in Henderson, Nev.

In addition to the Vegas Golden Knights, who recently participated in the pregame ceremony, the WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces also had the opportunity to light the torch before a game against the Denver Broncos on Oct. 2, 2022.

Over the years, the Raiders have invited a diverse range of participants to light the torch, including celebrities, former players, pro football Hall of Famers, law enforcement officials, local politicians, business people, and fans.

The Vegas Golden Knights are the first representatives from the hockey community to be part of the torch-lighting tradition.

“It was an incredibly cool experience,” remarked Vegas center Jack Eichel, who also had an exclusive interview with ESPN at halftime of the football game. “Being on that stage and lighting the torch was something truly unique and awesome.”

Eichel emphasized the importance for the Golden Knights to fully embrace these celebratory moments. Just recently, they received their championship rings in a special ceremony at Wynn Las Vegas. They will also raise their championship banner before their season opener against the Seattle Kraken at T-Mobile Arena on Tuesday (10:30 p.m. ET; ESPN, ESPN+, SN, TVAS).

“Last night, I was thinking about it and talking to a few guys here. I believe we all understand that the new season is starting, but we shouldn’t forget to enjoy these incredible experiences that we have the privilege to be part of,” Eichel explained. “These are truly remarkable and unique experiences. It’s important for us to appreciate and savor every moment, and remember that what we accomplished and won last year was extraordinary.”