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?
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Winnipeg Jets v Colorado Avalanche / Matthew Stockman/GettyImages
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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.