Vegas Golden Knights: Trade Deadline Preview
As the NHL Trade Deadline looms, the Vegas Golden Knights find themselves in a familiar yet precarious position. Once again perched atop the Pacific Division, they are poised to make a deep playoff run and reclaim their status as Stanley Cup contenders. But with great ambition comes great challenges.
However, limited draft capital, a thin prospect pool, and salary cap constraints have left them with fewer cards to play. Yet, if history has taught us anything, it’s that Vegas thrives under pressure and isn’t afraid to shake things up.
Record: 34-18-6, 1st in the Pacific Division
Deadline Status: Buyers
Deadline Cap Space: 2.422MM on deadline day, 0/3 retention spots used, 47/50 contract spots used, per PuckPedia.
Upcoming Draft Picks:
2025: VGK 2nd, SJ 3rd, WASH 3rd, VGK 4th, VGK 5th, VGK 6th, WASH 6th,
2026: VGK 2nd, VGK 3rd, VGK 5th, VGK 6th, VGK 7th
Trade Chips
While the Golden Knights still boast a few promising young players, their pool lacks the high-end talent needed to land a superstar like Mikko Rantanen. That said, Vegas does have some intriguing pieces that could be dangled in trade discussions—if they’re willing to part with them.
The centerpiece of Vegas’ prospect pool is Trevor Connelly, the 19th overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. A dynamic playmaking winger, Connelly is loaded with skill, boasting elite skating, a lethal shot, and exceptional hands.
Trading Connelly would be a bold move, but if Vegas decides to go all-in for another Stanley Cup push, he could be the key to unlocking a major deal.
Beyond Connelly, the Golden Knights have a few other prospects who could draw interest. Mathieu Cataford, the reigning QMJHL MVP, is a versatile forward who recently represented Canada at the World Juniors. His ability to play all three forward positions, combined with his high hockey IQ and knack for reading the game, makes him a valuable asset.
In goal, Carl Lindbom has emerged as a bright spot. The 21-year-old netminder is enjoying a strong rookie season in the AHL with Henderson, posting a 12-9-1 record and a .913 save percentage. Lindbom has consistently excelled at every level, earning accolades like HockeyAllsvenskan’s Goalie of the Year and Rookie of the Year before making a smooth transition to North American hockey.
Lindbom's development has been a pleasant surprise for Vegas, especially as he’s outperformed the more experienced Akira Schmid.
Team Needs
1. Depth Goaltender
Goaltending has been a bit of a concern for Vegas this season. Both Adin Hill and Ilya Samsonov endured a rough patch in January, leading to some uncertainty in the crease. Moreover, AHL goaltender Akira Schmid has struggled mightily, making him an unlikely emergency option if Hill or Samsonov falters or gets injured.
The trade market offers several goaltending options, but many come with hefty cap hits or long-term commitments that don’t align with Vegas’ financial constraints. Big names like John Gibson or Tristan Jarry are likely out of reach due to their expensive contracts.
However, more affordable targets like Anton Forsberg (Ottawa) or Alexandar Georgiev (San Jose) could be viable fits. Forsberg, in particular, stands out as a potential solution given his manageable cap hit and recent performance.
2. A Top-9 Forward
Last year, General Manager Kelly McCrimmon shocked the league with a last-minute deal for Tomas Hertl, proving that Vegas is always a threat to make a splash.
While the Golden Knights don’t need a massive overhaul up front, there’s room for improvement. Relying on Raphael Lavoie in a top-nine role isn’t ideal, and adding another skilled forward could provide the depth needed for a deep playoff push.
In a perfect world, Vegas would have their eyes on high-impact players like Brock Nelson or Brayden Schenn. However, with both carrying price tags north of $6 million, the Golden Knights would need to clear significant cap space to make such a move.
Instead, more affordable options like Anthony Beauvillier (Pittsburgh) or Ryan Donato (Chicago) could be realistic targets. Both players come with modest cap hits and offer versatility, allowing them to slot into various roles within Vegas’ forward group.
The Bottom Line
Despite their constraints, the Golden Knights still have pathways to improve. Their prospect pool, though shallow, features a few enticing names like Connelly, Cataford, and Lindbom.
Combined with their stash of mid-round draft picks, Vegas has enough ammunition to make targeted upgrades.
Image - Stephen R Sylvanie - Imagn
