35 goals. That was good enough to lead the Golden Knights in 2024-25.
13 power play goals. That was almost good enough for the single-season record (d**n you, Tomas Hertl).
Despite all this, it's not good enough for Pavel Dorofeyev. Some people want to see the Russian winger do this again in 2025-26. Geez, not even one season's good enough for you? Talk about a tough crowd.
Some people aren't sold on him being a viable long-term piece, either.
"He's still a bit raw!"
"A little wet between the ears."
"Will he ever replace Jonathan Marchessault's production?"
Well, dear reader, I have good news for you. He did that in 2024-25 by doing something the Original Misfit never did in his career: score double-digits in power play goals.
Still, that's not good enough for the haters here. They want to see more from the Golden Knights winger in 2025-26. They want an encore campaign where he goes beyond last season's production. Wouldn't that be amazing?
Mind you, he's a restricted free agent after 2025-26. So, let's paint a roadmap of success for the winger. You must answer the bell when called upon for an encore. Here's what the 24-year-old must do to give the fans what they want.
How Pavel Dorofeyev can earn a big deal with the Vegas Golden Knights
Currently, the Russian winger is seen as a pure offensive talent. He can score goals and has shiftiness in his skating. However, his defensive acumen is a bit lacking. One example is his blocked shots.
Last season, he had 37 blocked shots, which was a career-high. However, Bruce Cassidy would like to see him get more involved in the play and make more contributions here. After all, he did grow to 194 lbs. to complement his 6'1" frame.
But with that new frame comes a responsibility to play better away from the puck. The one problem with Dorofeyev's game is that he tends to get lost in the mix and doesn't do enough. He didn't forecheck sufficiently and he'd leave people open. 2025-26 is a good year for that to change.
Dorofeyev should continue to do what he does on the offensive end
Offensively, that's where he makes his bread and butter. That's especially true in the power play, where he sits atop the umbrella. He has a fast shot that can punish opponents and can be used for redirections. Such versatility makes him a dangerous player.
Combined with his shiftiness and skating ability, it also makes him tough when the Golden Knights have the puck. If he can crank up his speed more, that should elevate his profile further. In turn, ODB is singing "Baby I Got Your Money" with Kelis.
That's the goal, at least. Dorofeyev is a restricted free agent after this upcoming season and he's expected to get a decent-sized contract. Of course, the burden falls on him to produce. But last season proved he can do it while the lights are the brightest.