3 Potential Free-Agent Destinations for Chandler Stephenson

The Vegas Golden Knights are in for some roster changes. GM Kelly McCrimmon has only $1.1 million in projected cap space and while teams don't have to be compliant during the summer months, don't expect much for free-agent signings out of Vegas.

This leaves pending free-agent forward Chandler Stephenson in a tough spot. Stephenson is set to hit free agency on July 1 and is coming off a season where he posted 16 goals and 51 points in 75 games. He's found his legs in Vegas and has certainly hit another level offensively.

Stephenson earned $2.75 million per season on his last deal and is likely hoping to double that on his next deal. Here's three teams who are likely going to connect with Stephenson and his reps:

Buffalo Sabres

The Sabres are likely buying out Jeff Skinner which will help free up even more cap space for Kevyn Adams as the GM looks to upgrade his roster heading into next season. The Sabres want proven NHL talent who they can insert into the top six and Stephenson fits the bill. He's versatile, can play down the middle or on the wing and helps out on both sides of special teams. The 30-year-old forward makes a ton of sense for the Sabres.

Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks first priority is Jake Guentzel, however Stephenson could be a nice fall back option and someone who can replace Elias Lindholm. Lindholm struggled to find his game and never fitted in properly for the Canucks, meanwhile Stephenson plays a very similar style game, will be much cheaper as far as cap hit goes and can immediately be inserted into the top six.

Los Angeles Kings

The Kings are a bit of a mess and Rob Blake is looking to get things back on track this summer. Stephenson gives them a replacement for Pierre-Luc Dubois and Viktor Arvidsson and his versatility would go a long way for the Kings lineup. LA has the money to get a deal done and know Stephenson very well from playing so much against the Golden Knights.