In life, it takes a bold approach to live the life you want. That involves taking calculated risks and capitalizing on the results. Want to become a millionaire and claim the title of being the first in your family? You must be strong and take a shot. Want to change your life and get a better job? That starts with making the necessary changes.
That's no different with owning a hockey team, specifically when they've won a Stanley Cup in their first seven seasons. Enter the Vegas Golden Knights, an expansion franchise that's far different from its newer kin. There have been some bold moves made by the franchise, with George McPhee and Kelly McCrimmon setting the course for the franchise's direction.
Golden Knights fans are familiar with some of the big names that came from these deals. Fans think about Jack Eichel and Reilly Smith and how they helped the franchise win their first Stanley Cup in their history. Even Mark Stone and Chandler Stephenson come to mind! These moves made the team a resounding success in the NHL, with fans following their every move. It's good to be the king, especially when you've become one of the most awe-inspiring stories in the league.
Of course, there's a huge thank you to Bill Foley and the front office for making this happen, for they established a winning culture. With that, Golden Knights fans should look back on these three deals that got them to their current spot. They were bold moves that established hockey in Las Vegas and proved the sport could work in the desert. Here are the three bold deals that led to postseason success for the Golden Knights. In this scenario, we're talking about overall postseason success and long-term moves, not just for one season.
3.) The Florida Panthers trade Reilly Smith to the Vegas Golden Knights from the selection of Jonathan Marchessault for a 2018 fourth-round draft pick
This trade happened after the 2017 Expansion Draft, where the Vegas Golden Knights selected Jonathan Marchessault. As a result, Reilly Smith was traded to Vegas, establishing the "Golden Misfits" group that the fanbase would adore. It would also become one of the most important deals in franchise history.
Not only did the Golden Knights get two community cornerstones, but they also got two incredible players. Smith scored 124 goals and 162 assists during his six seasons with the team, while Marchessault scored 192 goals and 225 assists. Along the way, he won a Conn Smythe trophy and established countless franchise records.
The duo were responsible for two Stanley Cup Final appearances and one championship, turning Vegas into a perennial contender. Smith has 18 goals, 48 assists and a plus/minus of+24 in 88 playoff games with the team, while Marchessault has 36 goals, 39 assists, and a plus/minus of +36 in 95 games. Without them, the team doesn't make six Stanley Cup playoff appearances in seven seasons while hoisting Lord Stanley.