NHL And NHLPA Agree To $88M Salary Cap; Golden Knights Get Additional $300K Space
The NHL and the NHLPA have agreed to raise the salary cap for the 2024–2025 season to $88 million, a slight increase from the projected $87.7 million. This adjustment provides teams, including the Vegas Golden Knights, with an additional $300,000 in cap space, a crucial boost for teams operating close to the cap limit.
Impact on the Vegas Golden Knights
The Golden Knights are particularly pressed against the cap and face a challenging offseason with several key players approaching free agency. The list of pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs) includes:
- Jonathan Marchessault
- Chandler Stephenson
- Michael Amadio
- William Carrier
- Anthony Mantha
- Alec Martinez
In addition, the restricted free agents (RFAs) needing new contracts are:
- Paval Dorofeyev
- Kaedan Korczak
The additional cap space provides some relief, but the Golden Knights are still in a tough position, needing to make difficult decisions regarding their roster.
Departures and Contract Negotiations
Reports indicate that Amadio, Mantha, and Carrier are expected to leave the team, with Martinez likely to follow. The Golden Knights are in talks with Stephenson to determine his contract demands before deciding on his future with the organization.
Jonathan Marchessault, keen on signing an extension, has expressed frustration over not hearing from the team since the season ended. His situation remains unresolved, adding to the uncertainty.
Roster Adjustments and Future Moves
To address their cap constraints, the Golden Knights will need to rely on players with entry-level contracts or league minimum deals to fill out their roster. The salary cap increase gives them some breathing room to make these necessary adjustments.
Key young players expected to take on bigger roles include:
Pavel Dorofeyev: Before his injury, he showed steady improvement and is likely to be a significant part of the team’s future.
Kaedan Korczak: Had a strong season in both the NHL and AHL, positioning himself as a crucial defensive piece.
Brandon Brisson Demonstrated goal-scoring prowess and could have a breakout offensive season if given an extended role in the top six.
General Manager Kelly McCrimmon’s Busy Offseason
With multiple player departures, new faces, and potential big-time trades, General Manager Kelly McCrimmon has a packed agenda. Balancing the team’s immediate needs with long-term strategies will be essential to maintaining the Golden Knights’ competitive edge.
The slight increase in the salary cap provides a much-needed buffer, but the Golden Knights still face a summer of significant decisions and strategic moves to navigate their financial and roster challenges effectively.