The Vegas Golden Knights are heading into the 2025-2026 season with high expectations after an active offseason. Here's a look at some of the key talking points surrounding the team:
The Mitch Marner Effect
The biggest splash the Golden Knights made this summer was acquiring Mitch Marner from the Toronto Maple Leafs. The addition of Marner is expected to provide a significant boost to the team's offense. Many believe the Golden Knights are now destined to win the Stanley Cup. Marner is considered an elite talent, capable of scoring 100 points per season. He is a pass-first player known for his playmaking abilities, which should complement the team's existing offensive firepower. Some analysts predict that Marner's arrival makes the Golden Knights a top favorite to win the Stanley Cup. Adam Gretz of Bleacher Report even predicted the Golden Knights will win the 2025-26 Stanley Cup.
However, some concerns exist regarding Marner's playoff performance, as his production has tended to dip in the past when the stakes are highest. It remains to be seen how he will perform in the high-pressure environment of the Vegas Golden Knights.
Offseason Moves and Roster Depth
In addition to acquiring Marner, the Golden Knights have been active in solidifying their roster. The team re-signed defenseman Lukas Cormier and forwards Jonas Rondbjerg, Cole Schwindt, and Raphael Lavoie. Vegas also added depth by signing right-wingers Reilly Smith and Brandon Saad, defenseman Dylan Coghlan, and defenseman Jaycob Megna. The Golden Knights signed forwards Cole Schwindt, Jonas Rondbjerg, and Raphael Lavoie to one-year contracts. These moves are aimed at providing the team with depth and flexibility throughout the season.
Alex Pietrangelo's Health
A major concern for the Golden Knights is the health of defenseman Alex Pietrangelo. Pietrangelo is stepping away from the ice due to health reasons, specifically worsening hip issues that may require reconstructive surgery. The team will need other players to step up to fill the void left by Pietrangelo.
Goaltending and Defense
Adin Hill is coming off a career year, and the team hopes he can maintain that level of performance. Questions remain about how Akira Schmid will perform with increased responsibilities. With the departures of Alex Pietrangelo and Nicolas Hague, the Golden Knights will need to find a way to compensate for the loss of size and defensive acumen on the blue line.
Predictions and Expectations
The Golden Knights are widely considered to be among the top contenders for the Stanley Cup in 2026. Some analysts have even labeled them as the outright favorites. The team's success will depend on several factors, including the performance of Mitch Marner, the health of key players, and the ability of the team to overcome the loss of Alex Pietrangelo.
Overall, the Vegas Golden Knights have had a busy and eventful offseason. The addition of Mitch Marner has raised expectations, and the team is looking to compete for another Stanley Cup. However, questions remain about the team's defense and goaltending, as well as the health of key players. As the season approaches, it will be interesting to see if the Golden Knights can live up to the hype and achieve their ultimate goal.
