Some moves go unnoticed, where fans barely even know that player's on the team. It gives them an epiphany moment with the fans saying...
"Huh, that player's on our club now? I didn't know that."
This happens when the player's not as prominent as a name like Leon Draisaitl, where people know what they're capable of. Unless they've made the All-Star team in the past, put up nice stats, or won the Hart Memorial Trophy (or Vezina), it doesn't mean much to the average fan.
That's the case with Tanner Laczynski, who was signed by the Vegas Golden Knights to a two-year, $1.55 million deal earlier in July. The former Philadelphia Flyers center was productive with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms last season, scoring 17 goals and 27 assists in 49 games. His last NHL stint came in 2022-23, where he spent 32 games with Philadelphia (he scored two goals and two assists).
Laczynski has also had an accomplished amateur career, winning a gold medal with the United States in the 2017 World Junior Championship. He was also a good contributor during his USHL days, scoring 31 goals and 55 assists in 92 games with the Chicago Steel. All this points to a low-risk, high-reward signing that could help the Golden Knights.
The problem is the Golden Knights have a packed roster despite their recent free agent exodus. There are still reputable names such as Jack Eichel, Mark Stone, and William Karlsson taking up roster spots, leaving nothing for the 27-year-old. So what must he do to go beyond playing for the Henderson Silver Knights in his Nevada stay?
How Tanner Laczynski can get ice time with the Vegas Golden Knights (and more with the Henderson Silver Knights)
The first objective is an obvious one, which is staying healthy. In the past four seasons, he's only played 93 games at the AHL level, an alarming trend for someone looking to be a roster mainstay. Hip injuries have been an issue in the past, limiting his mobility and availability. Getting more ice time begins with staying healthy.
Second, he must build off being a strong 200-ft. player. Tanner Laczynski has shown he's a good forechecker during his time with the Philadelphia Flyers, adding some offense. Honing in on that talent will make him more valuable, especially in Bruce Cassidy's system. He can add bulk to his frame, making him a high-reward pickup. Picking up his pace will also help him survive the NHL level better.
At best, he can be a bottom-six forward who can replace an outgoing free agent or two next season. Brett Howden and Keegan Kolesar will be free agents next summer, leaving the Vegas Golden Knights to make tough decisions. They'll also have Jack Eichel set to hit the free agency market a year later, adding more stress. If Laczynski can prove he's capable of playing on the Henderson Silver Knights, he can translate that to the NHL level, something that has eluded him throughout his career. In turn, it'll make some choices easier for Kelly McCrimmon and the Golden Knights.