Golden Knights Trade Candidate Report: Anthony Duclair
A trade between the Vegas Golden Knights and the San Jose Sharks?! That seems impossible. But here's why that's a possibility.
Some things don't happen quite often, if at all. A solar eclipse, the Oakland/(soon-to-be) Las Vegas A's winning a game, and the Vegas Golden Knights and San Jose Sharks making a trade. There's a better chance you'll win the lottery than see the two rivals trade among each other.
But there's a possibility this will happen. It already happened with Adin Hill becoming a Vegas Golden Knight in August 2022. With the Sharks already tanking the season, they could give up one of their forwards for a draft pick or two.
Enter Anthony Duclair. The former Arizona Coyote has 16 goals in 56 games this season and would add more forward depth to a slumping Golden Knights team. What will it take to add the native of Pointe-Claire, Quebec? Could a trade between Vegas and San Jose actually happen?
1. Anthony Duclair's Scouting Report
Aside from scoring 16 goals, Anthony Duclair has a Corsi For percentage of 46.7 in 2023-2024. That's a career-low for the Quebec native, who's accustomed to seeing that number above 50%. His shots-through percentage is also one of the lowest in his career, standing at 50.8%.
But don't let that deter you from not being sold on the forward. Duclair is quick and can play both wing positions. He also has a quick release and can create his own shot. In short, he's an offensive mastermind, bettering his team in the process. From his incredible hands to his playmaking instincts, Duclair would make for a great offensive piece on the Vegas Golden Knights.
2. Who Else Wants Anthony Duclair?
There's some bad news for the San Jose Sharks. Not many people want their players, which will make it harder to replenish their draft picks. While there's mild interest in players like Duclair and Mario Ferraro, there won't be much of a return for said players. Life stinks for Sharks fans right now (P.U.!).
However, one sensible spot is the New York Islanders. Long Island's team could use some forward depth to boost their team, so who better than the 28-year-old to come on board? Duclair's familiar with Patrick Roy, playing under him with the Quebec Remparts during his Juniors days.
3. The Trade Proposal for Anthony Duclair
The Vegas Golden Knights have already made a splash at the trade deadline, acquiring forward Anthony Mantha for a couple of draft picks. The Golden Knights won't a steep price for this Anthony, keeping it lower than their first.
Duclair is only being paid $3 million, a modest amount for the Golden Knights. Vegas might shoot for someone better, specifically if it's Pavel Buchnevich or another trendy forward. But crazier things have happened. There might be a trade between these two teams before the deadline.