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Why the Golden Knights must make this trade now

With Jonathan Marchessault gone and Steven Stamkos joining him in Nashville, the Golden Knights need a top-line player. Why must they acquire this elite player?

By Jacob Walters

Toronto Maple Leafs v Boston Bruins - Game Two
Toronto Maple Leafs v Boston Bruins - Game Two / Richard T Gagnon/GettyImages
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The Golden Knights power play would benefit greatly

On that note, Jonathan Marchessault had 103 power play points since Vegas's inaugural season. While that sounds nice, Mitch Marner had 174 power play points since 2017-18. That's a considerable jump that should have Kelly McCrimmon's attention.

That's especially true with the unit struggling historically. A lifetime average of 19.6% won't cut it in today's NHL, specifically with teams like Edmonton and Florida making this year's Stanley Cup Final. Vegas's best season was 22%, which is still an unimpressive number.

As for Marner, his worst season with the man advantage was the shortened 2020-21 campaign. Here, he scored 14 points, which would be a good number on the Golden Knights. Why not go after a younger winger who can make plays and make the unit better?

He might be seen as more of a playmaker than a goal scorer. However, Marner's special teams acumen makes him elite. That's accompanied by a high hockey IQ, where he knows what play is coming next. Such qualities are cherished by NHL teams, specifically the Vegas Golden Knights.

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