Jonathan Marchessault’s future with the Vegas Golden Knights is a major offseason question, as the team looks to address several key issues following their playoff elimination.
When asked about the possibility of not having Marchessault in the Golden Knights’ locker room next season, defenseman Brayden McNabb responded succinctly, “No,” letting the word linger before elaborating on his teammate’s significance. His brief yet powerful response highlighted the strong feelings within the team about Marchessault, a player who embodies the “Golden Misfit” spirit of the original Knights squad.
Marchessault, who went from being undrafted to winning the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff MVP last year, is one of only five players remaining from the inaugural 2017-18 team. The winger, now an unrestricted free agent, just completed his best season with 42 goals, nearly breaking William Karlsson’s team record.
“I’ve done everything I can to stay here,” Marchessault said. “I know I’m a big part of this organization. I’ve proven it over the years. I would love to stay. It’s my home. I’ve been part of this from the start. It’s the proudest achievement of my professional life. I’m happy to be a Golden Knight and would like to remain one, but it’s not entirely in my control.”
Marchessault mentioned he had spoken with general manager Kelly McCrimmon, who expressed a desire to bring him back. “It depends on whether this is important to them or not,” Marchessault added. “I want to be in an organization that values me. I play to win, and I want to be in a place that helps me achieve that.”
McCrimmon praised Marchessault, saying, “He had a career year and has done everything possible to put himself in a good position. We really like him, and his value extends beyond what you see on the ice. He’s a crucial part of our dressing room, and there’s a strong willingness from both sides to have meaningful discussions. That’s our focus.”
The decision on whether the 33-year-old Marchessault will return is just one of many significant offseason challenges for the Golden Knights. Other key players, including forward William Carrier and unrestricted free agents Chandler Stephenson, Michael Amadio, and Anthony Mantha, as well as defenseman Alec Martinez, also face uncertain futures. Mantha, acquired at the trade deadline, was a healthy scratch during part of the playoffs, casting doubt on his return.
The upcoming months will shape the team Vegas puts on the ice next season. Despite their early playoff exit, losing a 2-0 series lead to the Dallas Stars and falling in seven games, the Knights remain ambitious. They aim to use this setback as motivation, similar to how missing the playoffs two years ago fueled their championship run last year.
“I think it should fuel all of us,” said center Jack Eichel. “There’s only one team satisfied at the end of the year. We were that team last year. We can use this early exit as motivation for next season.”
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