Will the Golden Knights Trade Their Conn Smythe-Winning Player?

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Ryan Hall
August 9, 2023 (5:41 PM)

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In the world of the NHL, there come moments when a team must seize the opportunity to capitalize on an asset before it evolves into an unrestricted free agent.

This scenario typically arises when a player's value has peaked, and there's a looming possibility of being unable to re-sign the player for a long-term contract due to salary cap constraints.

Currently facing potential cap restrictions, the Vegas Golden Knights find themselves in such a situation. Fresh off their Stanley Cup victory, they are left with a mere $834,000 in available cap space. The player at the center of this dilemma is none other than Jonathan Marchessault, the current playoff MVP.

Having clinched both the Stanley Cup and the Conn Smythe trophy, Marchessault carries a $5 million cap hit in the final year of his contract. As he approaches the age of 33, he will undoubtedly be seeking the most favourable deal, especially considering he's entering the latter stages of his career. Michael del Rosa of NHL hockey rumours suggests that two teams are potential contenders for Marchessault's services, possibly leading to his return to the Eastern Conference.

One team that arises in speculation is the Buffalo Sabres. A perpetual contender in the Eastern Conference, the Sabres could greatly benefit from Marchessault's scoring prowess and rapid skating abilities. With aspirations of securing a playoff spot, the addition of a player of his calibre would undeniably enhance their prospects.

The other organization in the mix is the New York Islanders. Following a disappointment in the Alex DeBrincat sweepstakes, with the player heading to Detroit, the Islanders are on the hunt for increased scoring. Given his current cap hit and the scoring depth desired by General Manager Lou Lamoriello, Marchessault appears to be a fitting candidate to fill this void.

Marchessault will likely be a subject of trade discussions for the Vegas Golden Knights, particularly in light of their anticipated modest retooling after their Stanley Cup victory.