3 reasons why Chandler Stephenson should be re-signed
Everyone is talking about No. 81 and possibly signing an extension with the Vegas Golden Knights. However, there's one Golden Knight to watch for to return.
Vegas Golden Knights fans can't go one minute without talking about winger Jonathan Marchessault and extension talks. The beloved "Original Misfit" is an unrestricted free agent this summer, coming with a hefty price tag. Will he return to the Golden Knights or will he hit free agency and leave Sin City altogether?
That's the pressing question that has numerous Golden Knights fans on the edge. However, there's another unrestricted free agent that should be considered for a return to Vegas. His name is Chandler Stephenson and he was crucial in the Golden Knights winning their first Stanley Cup in franchise history.
"But why Chandler Stephenson, though? What makes him an appealing candidate for the Vegas Golden Knights to target for a return in free agency?"
Well, dear reader, that might be something asked if Jonathan Marchessault doesn't return to Las Vegas next season. After all, he will cost a pretty penny for Vegas this summer. That comes with the territory of scoring 42 goals this season. For general manager Kelly McCrimmon, all options are on the table regarding this offseason.
However, there's more value to Stephenson than one might realize. Granted, the Saskatoon native might not be an "Original Misfit" or a bubbly personality. Stephenson also doesn't have a Conn Smythe trophy with his name on it. However, it's always the quieter players who play a big role in a team's success. For the center, that's no different with his Vegas tenure.
Still, the center was a valuable piece for the Vegas Golden Knights during his tenure. Therefore, there's good reason for him to come back in Las Vegas next season, should Marchessault not return. In fact, there are three solid reasons for a Stephenson return.
1. Chandler Stephenson is in his prime
There's a solid argument for bringing in a younger player to return for the Golden Knights next season. That's especially true if that player is three years younger than Jonathan Marchessault. For Chandler Stephenson, he's the perfect fit for this scenario, sitting pretty at 30 years old.
The Canadian forward came into 2024 strong, producing 10 goals and 23 assists after the new year. In fact, he's had three games where he's had more than one assist in a game after January 1st. Sometimes, it doesn't matter if a player gets off to a slow start. As long as they finish strong, they can make a case.
Even though he didn't show up for the Vegas Golden Knights against the Dallas Stars (just one assist in the series), Stephenson still has plenty of solid attributes. He can play with any line and adapt in any situation, with the type of versatility needed by head coach Bruce Cassidy.
While Stephenson might not be the prolific goal-scorer that Marchessault is, he fits Cassidy's system well. He's a two-way forward who skates well, using his athleticism to make plays. Vegas's second line is just as important as the first, which is where the Saskatoon native comes in.
2. Stephenson can be a cheaper option
According to Evolving-Hockey, Jonathan Marchessault is projected to earn a contract worth $7.2 million every year. That sort of cap hit is tough for McCrimmon and the Vegas Golden Knights to cover. Even with a trade or two happening, it completely changes the dimensions and dynamic of the Golden Knights.
That's even with a big contract like Alec Martinez coming off the books. Unless the Golden Knights plan to call up a prospect or two and go cheaper, they must make a trade if there's any hope for the beloved winger to come back.
Compare that to Chandler Stephenson, who should come at a cheaper price. The center's max should project around $5 million, but it will likely fall a bit lower. If McCrimmon feels Marchessault is too pricey for a Golden Knights return, that will make Stephenson look like a more attractive candidate to return.
The Golden Knights are hurting for cap space, which will be freed with some trades. Of course, that comes with giving lucrative contracts to key pieces like Jack Eichel, Noah Hanifin, and Mark Stone. But that's what makes Stephenson more lucrative in this scenario, for Vegas won't have to break the bank as much.
3. Stephenson fits the system well
As mentioned earlier, another thing that Chandler Stephenson has going for him is he's a good fit in Bruce Cassidy's system. Cassidy values players, specifically forwards, who play a two-way game. Being able to move around all 200 feet of the ice is something valued for the Golden Knights.
With Stephenson's speed and adaptability, that makes him a good choice to re-sign if Marchessault doesn't come back. Compared to the winger, who's 33 years old, 5'9" and 185 lbs., Stephenson is 30 years old, 6'0", and 205 lbs. If fans aren't getting the beloved "Misfit", the Saskatoon native should be a priority to resign.
Marchessault is valuable to the Vegas Golden Knights based solely on his offensive contributions. He's great on the power play and is an excellent finisher with consistent ability. However, he's also limited defensively, which is especially true at his age. Stephenson doesn't have such limitations, which is why he would be a good substitute for the Golden Knights should Marchessault not return.
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