3 Potential Free-Agent Destinations for Jonathan Marchessault

While the Vegas Golden Knights would ideally like to re-sign pending free agent Jonathan Marchessault, they just may not have room to do so. The Golden Knights only have a projected $1.1 million in cap space ahead of the 2024 NHL Draft and will need to create some more financial flexibility if they want to keep Marchessault in town.

If he hits the open market, which looks very likely at this point, here's where Marchessault could wind up:

Montreal Canadiens

The Canadiens are expected to surprise some people this summer as they look to take a step forward next season. While they have a young core in place, GM Kent Hughes would reportedly like to sprinkle in some more veteran NHL talent to help mentor and push his young forwards. Marchessault is a prime candidate for this role and Montreal has the money to make it happen.

Utah HC

Utah would like to turn some heads this summer as they look to impress their fans with their spending habits.  Bill Armstrong is going to be busy trying to convince free agents to make the jump to Utah, a city they'll no nothing about, but given that there could be top-line minutes to be played and a hefty salary raise, Marchessault could very well consider the move.

Los Angeles Kings

The Kings have freed up some cap space and they're expected to re-tool on the fly. Marchessault is a perfect candidate to head to LA as the team is familiar with his game, they have a need for scoring wingers and have the cap space to get a deal done thanks to moving on from Pierre-Luc Dubois. Rob Blake will be treading lightly on the long-term contracts this summer but it's not out of the question for the 33-year-old Marchessault to land a three-year deal.

photo credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports