**Three Potential Destinations for Golden Knights’ Jonathan Marchessault**
The Vegas Golden Knights have yet to offer Jonathan Marchessault a contract, leading to growing frustration for the 33-year-old forward. With the possibility of Marchessault entering free agency becoming more likely, it’s worth considering which teams might be interested in him and at what price.
Marchessault desires to return to the Golden Knights next season, but the team’s current salary cap constraints make it difficult to retain many of their pending free agents. Given his impressive seven-season tenure in Vegas, he deserves a raise, but it might not be feasible with the Golden Knights.
**Montreal Canadiens**
The hometown connection often plays a significant role for aging NHL players. Born in Cap-Rouge, Quebec, the Montreal Canadiens are a potential destination for Marchessault. While the Canadiens are expected to improve next season, their chances of making the playoffs in the tough Atlantic Division are uncertain. If Marchessault wants to retire in his home province and maximize his earnings, Montreal could be a good fit. However, the likelihood of competing for another Stanley Cup there is low. Despite this, joining a team with young talents like Cole Caufield, Nick Suzuki, Juraj Slafkovsky, and Lane Hutson could be exciting for fans.
**Detroit Red Wings**
Returning to the Atlantic Division with the Detroit Red Wings makes more sense for Marchessault. The Red Wings have a history of adding veteran talent to strengthen their offense, such as signing David Perron and winning the Patrick Kane sweepstakes. GM Steve Yzerman is no longer patient with the rebuild, and adding another Stanley Cup champion like Marchessault could be ideal for a young team on the rise. With Perron and Kane’s futures uncertain, the Red Wings need a top-six winger, making Marchessault a valuable addition.
**Carolina Hurricanes**
The Carolina Hurricanes have undergone significant changes, including parting ways with GM Don Waddell and dealing with 13 free agents. Given their cap restrictions, Marchessault might receive a similar contract to what the Golden Knights could offer. The Hurricanes, who have been close to success in recent seasons, could benefit from a veteran playoff performer like Marchessault. His timely goalscoring could add crucial depth to a team that has become an attractive destination for free agents.
**Final Thoughts**
The Golden Knights have historically managed their team with a focus on cap structure, even at the cost of losing fan favorites like Marc-André Fleury and Reilly Smith. Letting their Conn Smythe Trophy winner walk away would be a new level of ruthlessness. Marchessault’s potential departure would significantly impact the team’s culture, but he will always be remembered as a legend for the franchise, an original Misfit, and a Stanley Cup champion, regardless of where he ends up.
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