SerpApi.Org
Alright, for this practice, we're not worrying about players like Marc Gatcomb or Dylan Coghlan. Sure, I love these guys since they play key roles for the Vegas Golden Knights. But we're focusing on the big dogs after the turbulent offseason started.
The Golden Knights didn't acquire any big names on the free agent market, mainly because the pickings were rather slim. They also didn't make a big trade, although that can change with Kelly McCrimmon looming large. Overall, it was much quieter than anticipated for the Golden Knights.
I know, it seems like a complete shocker. But that's the way the cookie crumbles. You don't have infinite draft picks to send to rebuilding teams, leaving you to become crafty. That means that Pavel Dorofeyev's got to go so you don't pay him $11 million per year.
So, let's look at the big boys for this session and see how McCrimmon did. Which deals stood out? Which contract(s) have the potential to be extremely valuable for the Golden Knights? Let's evaluate the "Big Three" and see who stood out the most.
Rasmus Andersson
This deal will look much better down the road when the salary cap goes up. The $8.5 million AAV will also pale in comparison to the growing deals picked up by other defensemen, making this far more favorable for Vegas. But there are some expectations with a seven-year, $8.5 million AAV deal.
He must perform with the Golden Knights, especially during the Stanley Cup playoffs. Six assists during a Stanley Cup Final run is unacceptable, especially when you weren't expected to make it on a down year. If he can maximize his production with his new contract, it'll turn the tide on how the Golden Knights fanbase views him.
Victor Olofsson
Looking back at Olofsson's first Vegas residency, he had a respectable campaign. The Swedish winger scored 15 goals and 14 assists in 2024-25, with six coming on the power play. Mind you, that was on a one-year prove-it deal with the Golden Knights.
Believe it or not, the 31-year-old produced decent numbers with the Calgary Flames and the Colorado Avalanche. He scored 13 goals and 18 assists last season, with two goals and five assists coming on the power play. While he's not likely to replace Pavel Dorofeyev's production, he'll still provide scoring on the wing. All of this for roughly $1.64 million? Sign me up!
Jeremy Lauzon
The Vegas Golden Knights defenseman brought plenty of hits to Sin City. He amassed 251 hits in 2025-26, adding 12 assists to the foray. In fact, he chipped in 97 blocked shots, making him a solid stay-at-home defenseman.
But the deal itself is interesting. Six years for $24 million and adding a no-trade clause. The organization is placing a lot of faith in the former Nashville Predator to provide more stay-at-home defense. That's extra pressure added on him, specifically if he stays in the penalty box a lot.
Today's best reads
- What if the Vegas Golden Knights extended Jonathan Marchessult to his desired deal?
- What Golden Knights fans can expect from a second go-round with Victor Olofsson
- The 4 most important moves in Vegas Golden Knights history
- Kelly McCrimmon's next big target should come from the South
- Golden Knights Round-Up featuring the NHL schedule, Steve Yzerman and more
This article was originally published on vegashockeyknight.com as Grading the Vegas Golden Knights' offseason signings and extensions.
