The Case for Keeping Jonathan Marchessault AND Chandler Stephenson

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The Vegas Golden Knights are in a bind right now. Their biggest dilemma is which of their pending unrestricted free agents to retain. Jonathan Marchessault? Chandler Stephenson? Alec Martinez? A big decision (or two) looms for Kelly McCrimmon and the Golden Knights.

First, let's get one thing out of the way. McCrimmon prefers younger Golden Knights on his team. That's part of why Reilly Smith was sent to Pittsburgh this past offseason; the Vegas Golden Knights placed their hopes on younger talent like wingers Paul Cotter and Pavel Dorofeyev to carry the load.

Therefore, it stands with good reason that defenseman Alec Martinez won't be back after this season. In fact, rumors are swirling Martinez might be offloaded at the trade deadline. The native of Rochester Hills, Michigan, is 36 years old and is starting to break down a bit. With younger stars like Ben Hutton and Kaeden Korczak waiting in the wings, there's not a better time to move on than now.

But what about Stephenson and Marchessault? Which one of these forwards should the Golden Knights extend? With that, we shall say, "Why not both?" Here's why there's a case for extending both superstars to keep them in Vegas.

1. Chandler Stephenson is Starting to Show His Form

Vegas Golden Knights v San Jose Sharks / Thearon W. Henderson/GettyImages

You know why the Golden Knights need to extend Jonathan Marchessault. He's played incredible hockey this season and has proven to be a versatile offensive talent. While the winger is 33 years old, he's playing at a higher clip, propelling Vegas to the playoffs.

But Chandler Stephenson has also proven his worth in the past month. For February, the center had five goals and five assists. He's a speedy scorer who can fly around the rink quickly. For example, he had a beautiful short-handed goal against the Boston Bruins on Thursday, pushing Vegas to nearly come back against Boston.

That's coincided with his improved playmaking and adaptability. He's able to play with anyone regardless of their age and experience, making him a solid offensive leader. The emergence of the Saskatoon native has prompted an interesting conversation about who the Golden Knights should keep.

2. The Opportunity is There

2023 NHL Stanley Cup Final - Game Two / Ethan Miller/GettyImages

I know what you're going to ask regarding this topic.

"How can you sign BOTH Jonathan Marchessault and Chandler Stephenson? They have contracts where the AAV will be too much."

First, there's some good news regarding this topic, dear reader. The NHL salary cap is set to increase by $4.2 million next season. That should leave room for the Vegas Golden Knights to make a substantial offer to one of the forwards.

But, wait, there's more! Martinez's $5.25 million is set to come off the books next season, providing even more legroom for Vegas. Throw in William Carrier's $1.4 million cap hit and minor cap hits like Byron Froese and Sheldon Rempal ($762,500 each) and everything works out.

There are also potential trade pieces like Keegan Kolesar that could open the cap. While some rearranging will be done, Kelly McCrimmon can lock up Marchessault on a shorter deal and Chandler Stephenson for the long term.

3. What Will Happen Next?

Los Angeles Kings v Vegas Golden Knights / Ethan Miller/GettyImages

It's too early to tell who might return to the Vegas Golden Knights next season. Both forwards have done an excellent job recently, keeping the Golden Knights offense afloat.

But, Jonathan Marchessault appears to have the early lead because of his overall season. The winger is on pace for 44 goals this season, putting him in the NHL's upper echelons.

Still, you can't discount Chandler Stephenson and his recent run. If the center continues to build on his incredible February month, the Golden Knights will have no choice but to bring back both forwards.

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1. Chandler Stephenson is Starting to Show His Form

2. The Opportunity is There

3. What Will Happen Next?

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