**4 Free Agents the Golden Knights Should Target**
As discussed last week, many of the Vegas Golden Knights’ forwards will need new contracts by July 1. Currently, six forwards who contributed 94 goals this season are set to become free agents, leaving the team uncertain about their futures.
Players like Jonathan Marchessault and Chandler Stephenson might secure more lucrative deals elsewhere. Others, such as William Carrier, Michael Amadio, and Anthony Mantha, reportedly won’t return next season. This opens up several forward positions, and while talented young players like Brendan Brisson, Paul Cotter, and Jonas Rondbjerg could step in, their inexperience may be a limitation.
Now, after examining their own free agents, it’s time to look at available players who could fill these gaps. Here are four potential fits for the Golden Knights:
**Elias Lindholm**
Vegas might need to fill a top-six forward spot this summer. While high-scoring players like Steven Stamkos and Sam Reinhart are attractive options, Elias Lindholm stands out. Despite a challenging season split between the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks due to a mid-season trade, the 29-year-old Swede showcased his versatility as a center. Though his 15 goals were a seven-year low, he excelled in face-offs (58.7%) and displayed strong two-way skills. Lindholm could command a significant payday but likely less than after his 42-goal season in 2021-22.
**Tyler Toffoli**
Replacing those 94 goals won’t be easy. While more goals can be expected from a full season of Tomas Hertl and the development of young players like Brisson, Cotter, and Pavel Dorofeyev (a restricted free agent), external help is necessary. Tyler Toffoli is a viable option. The 32-year-old has played for six teams since 2019-20, consistently scoring between 20 and 34 goals each season and netting 11 playoff goals. Though higher-scoring wingers are available, Toffoli’s likely affordability (he earned $4.25 million last season) is a plus.
**Sam Lafferty**
If Amadio and Carrier depart, depth forwards will be needed. The failed Mantha acquisition showed the importance of fit, which is where Sam Lafferty comes in. A key bottom-six player for the Canucks, Lafferty scored 13 goals and 24 points despite averaging less than 12 minutes per game. The 29-year-old offers speed and physicality, essential qualities to replace Carrier and enhance scoring depth.
**Warren Foegele**
Warren Foegele has impressed with a career-best season with the Stanley Cup Final-bound Edmonton Oilers, reaching 20 goals and 41 points. However, much of his success came from playing alongside Leon Draisaitl. Even if he doesn’t hit 20 goals again without Draisaitl, Foegele’s physical play, blocking shots, and puck protection are valuable traits for a bottom-six forward, making him a desirable addition for the Golden Knights.
Historically, the Golden Knights have preferred acquiring talent via trades rather than free agency, with Alex Pietrangelo being a notable exception. However, with numerous holes to fill, free agency will be crucial in rebuilding their roster for another Cup-contending run. It promises to be an interesting summer.
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