The Vegas Golden Knights are heading into a pivotal offseason, with the 2025 NHL Draft and free agency period rapidly approaching. After an early exit in the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs at the hands of the Edmonton Oilers, several questions loom over the team's future. General Manager Kelly McCrimmon faces mounting pressure to make strategic moves that will solidify the Golden Knights' position as a top contender. Here are three key storylines to monitor as the team prepares for the upcoming weeks.
The Golden Knights find themselves without a first-round pick in the upcoming draft, a familiar situation for the franchise. This is due to the Tomas Hertl trade with the San Jose Sharks. Despite the lack of a high-profile pick, the team has a history of finding talent in later rounds. In the 2023 NHL Draft, Vegas secured forward Mathieu Cataford in the third round, who has since shown significant promise.
This year, with six picks in later rounds, the Golden Knights will need to rely on their scouting department to identify undervalued players. Potential targets include Daniil Skvortsov, a large, agile defenseman, Olivier Groulx, a left-wing known for his puck possession skills, and Hayden Harsanyi, an offensively gifted forward. Success in the later rounds hinges on identifying players with high potential and a strong work ethic, which the Golden Knights have demonstrated an ability to do.
The Golden Knights are expected to be active in free agency, with the potential to pursue top talent like Toronto Maple Leafs right-wing Mitch Marner. Marner, coming off a career-high 102 points, would bring elite offensive skills and strong defensive play to Vegas. However, acquiring Marner would require significant maneuvering due to the team's existing cap situation.
Vegas currently has approximately $9.6 million in cap space with nine forwards, seven defensemen, and two goalies already under contract. To create sufficient room for a player like Marner, the Golden Knights may need to make trades or allow some of their own free agents to walk.
Among their own free agents, re-signing Reilly Smith appears to be a priority. Smith has expressed a desire to remain in Vegas and continue his role with the team. Other free agents, such as Brandon Saad and Victor Olofsson, could also be valuable additions to the roster, particularly as depth forwards. The team's decision on goaltender Ilya Samsonov, who is unlikely to return, will also influence their approach to free agency. They may seek a more proven backup for Adin Hill or give prospect Akira Schmid an opportunity.
The future of veteran defenseman Alex Pietrangelo is another key storyline. As a cornerstone of the Golden Knights' defense and a respected leader, Pietrangelo's performance and contract status will play a crucial role in the team's long-term plans. While not an immediate free agency concern, his continued contribution to the team's success remains vital.
Beyond Pietrangelo, the Golden Knights have already secured long-term extensions with key players like Shea Theodore, Adin Hill, and Brett Howden, ensuring a stable core for the foreseeable future. Center Jack Eichel is also eligible for an extension, which could further solidify the team's leadership and talent base. However, one player who won't be traded is center William Karlsson.
As the draft and free agency approach, the Golden Knights face critical decisions that will shape their roster and competitiveness. By strategically managing their limited draft capital, making prudent free agency acquisitions, and maintaining their leadership core, Vegas aims to remain a top contender in the Western Conference.
