The Vegas Golden Knights are gearing up for the 2025-26 NHL season with a significant roster addition and a prominent national broadcast schedule. Here's a look at the latest news and rumors surrounding the team:
The Golden Knights made a splash this summer by acquiring star winger Mitch Marner from the Toronto Maple Leafs in a sign-and-trade deal. Marner's arrival in Vegas is expected to bolster their offensive firepower and make them an even stronger contender for the Stanley Cup. According to reports, Marner chose to join the Golden Knights despite his agent, Darren Ferris, advising him to explore free agency. Marner was swayed by the Golden Knights' winning culture and their reputation for treating players and their families well. He reportedly spoke with players on the team who praised the organization's "family-first" approach. Marner also expressed his desire to compete for a Stanley Cup with a team that has already proven it can win.
The Golden Knights had been pursuing Marner for some time, with trade talks dating back to the summer of 2024. Discussions reportedly intensified ahead of the 2025 trade deadline, involving a potential three-team blockbuster with the Carolina Hurricanes. While that deal ultimately fell through, it demonstrated the Golden Knights' strong interest in acquiring Marner. To make room for Marner's contract, the Golden Knights may have to make some tough decisions, potentially trading away a roster player. One name that has been mentioned in trade rumors is William Karlsson, a long-time fan favorite.
Marner himself has spoken about the intense scrutiny he faced while playing in Toronto, noting the heightened pressure from fans and media. He revealed that he even required "full-time security" for a period of time due to threats and other incidents. Marner's agent also mentioned instances of people throwing things in his yard and posting his address on social media.
The Vegas Golden Knights are set to feature in 15 nationally televised games during the 2025-26 regular season. Thirteen of these games will be broadcast exclusively on ESPN and Turner Sports. The season opener against the Los Angeles Kings on October 8 will be broadcast on TNT. The game will mark Marner's debut with the Golden Knights. Other national broadcasts include a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs on January 15.
In addition to the national broadcasts, 69 Golden Knights games will be available regionally on Scripps Sports and KnightTime+. All games broadcast through Scripps Sports will air on The Spot - Vegas 34 in Southern Nevada and other affiliated stations throughout the team's television territory. Each of the 69 games on Scripps Sports will also be available to stream live on KnightTime+. U.S. fans located outside of the team's television territory can stream locally broadcast games on ESPN+.
The Golden Knights' game in Carolina on October 28 has been adjusted from 4:30 p.m. PT to 3:30 p.m. PT. The full list of national television broadcasts for the Golden Knights is subject to change. All Golden Knights games, both home and away, will be broadcast on the VGK Radio Network presented by Lee's Discount Liquor, including FOX Sports Radio Las Vegas (98.9 FM, 1340 AM). Golden Knights home games will also be available in Spanish on Deportes Vegas (1460 AM).
