Ranking the best center options in free agency
The Vegas Golden Knights are looking for any scoring depth for the season. Who are the best center options for the team?
The Vegas Golden Knights are in a precarious position. Having only $6.1 million in salary cap space (LTIR included), they have many questions regarding what moves to make. It's a tough position to be in, especially when you have fan favorites to re-sign. But that's the hand Vegas has been dealt, for they need offensive talent to fill the void.
But there might be other options to consider if the fan favorite doesn't come back. While there are some in-house options for offense, the team also needs some centers for depth. Wingers are also helpful considering Vegas needs them for scoring goals or checking opponents. However, the other part of the offensive equation should also be considered.
With the team going all-in on their Stanley Cup contention window this past trade deadline, getting the best fits for the team should be the top priority for general manager Kelly McCrimmon. Who will fit in with players like William Karlsson or Mark Stone? What can this player bring to the table that can enhance our team as a whole? Such questions are pressing on the mind of McCrimmon before July 1st.
The good news is there are plenty of solid names that can fit into the Vegas Golden Knights lineup. These players can make plays happen offensively, giving the team a much-needed scoring boost. That's music to McCrimmon's ears, especially since he's looking to win another Stanley Cup in the next five years.
So who are these mysterious options that would fit? Where are these players that can help the team get back to the Stanley Cup Final? Keep in mind that there are multiple factors going into this list, including potential contracts offered. There's also the recent performance from these players, which plays a factor. Here are some players that should be a great fit.
3.) A potential Vegas Golden Knights reunion with Teddy Blueger?
Last season, the Vegas Golden Knights got Teddy Blueger from the Pittsburgh Penguins for Peter DiLiberatore and a 2024 third-round draft pick. The purpose was to bolster the penalty kill and add scoring depth on the lower lines. He scored two goals and four assists in 18 games with Vegas, eventually winning the Stanley Cup with the team. Blueger even added a postseason goal and assist during that postseason run, helping them win their first title in franchise history.
So why not get a reunion going with the Latvian center? There's a need for lower line production, particularly on the fourth line. William Carrier isn't coming back to the team next season, being part of the exodus of forwards. In turn, scoring depth is a must this offseason, specifically if they come at a cheaper price. Luckily, that's what the Vancouver Canucks player offers.
This season, Teddy Blueger had 22 assists on Vancouver's lower lines, providing overall offensive depth. He's proven himself to be a solid distributor, setting up terrific scoring opportunities with his flashiness and speed. Such assets can help the Golden Knights become a better scoring team, adding much-needed life to the unit.
2.) Max Domi makes his way to Sin City
Max Domi might have some history with the Vegas Golden Knights, specifically with Mark Stone. The Toronto Maple Leafs center was fined $5,000 for slashing the Captain in game three of last season's Western Conference Final. He also received two minor penalties and a game misconduct for cross-checking and roughing Nic Hague.
While he might not be the most likable person to Vegas hockey fans, there is a need to fill forward depth this offseason, specifically with gritty players. That's especially true with goal-scorers like Michael Amadio and Anthony Mantha heading out the door. Scoring 38 assists with Toronto is a testament to this, where he was a key part of the Maple Leafs offense.
Now Max Domi has expressed a deep interest in returning to the Toronto Maple Leafs. He's stated that he'd love to play for new head coach, Craig Berube. While he's leaning towards a reunion in Ontario, the Vegas Golden Knights shouldn't overlook this option. He provides versatility and an offensive bite to the team, whether it's by himself or with his teammates.
1.) The Golden Knights get a boost from Sean Monahan
Sean Monahan was one of the first pending free agents highlighted on the site. The Winnipeg Jets center scored 26 goals and 33 assists this season, providing an offensive bite to the team. He's proven himself to be valuable to any team seeking depth at a reasonable price. That's where the Vegas Golden Knights come in, for they're limited in salary cap space and forward depth.
While Monahan does provide solid production for any team, there are some concerns with bringing him on board. The native of Brampton, Ontario, tends to go on cold streaks, where he'll go a month without scoring. Such inconsistency can hurt the team, especially when they have numerous players injured. That's what happened this season, where players like William Karlsson and Jack Eichel were out of commission.
On that note, Sean Monahan has dealt with numerous injuries himself. In 2022-23, he only played 25 games for the Montreal Canadiens, dealing with a groin injury. Plus, getting a "Golden Misfit" back will be a top priority, which could soak up any money for him. While these problems are red flags, it shouldn't deter Kelly McCrimmon from exploring a potential deal with the center. That's especially true with him taking on a smaller role.
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