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?

Toronto Maple Leafs v Boston Bruins - Game Two
Toronto Maple Leafs v Boston Bruins - Game Two | Richard T Gagnon/GettyImages
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Time for the Vegas Golden Knights to truly go all-in

Going all-in on your contention window means acquiring one more big piece. That player can pair with Jack Eichel on the top line, setting up ridiculous give-and-go's and rushes. Vegas acquired Noah Hanifin and Tomas Hertl in March, so one more should help. That's where Mitch Marner comes in, for he's another great offensive piece for a starved team.

But there's more to his game than simply being one of Toronto's "Core Four" stars. He's excellent on the forecheck, creating takeaways and playing with a 200-ft. game. There's also the intelligence aspect that makes him lethal. The right winger sees two plays ahead of his opponents, setting up the next scoring opportunity easily.

Plus, he can play on both special teams units and is heading into his prime years. He'll be a valuable piece for Bruce Cassidy to coach, especially as an elite player. Imagine him and Eichel going up the ice for a game-winning goal. Not many teams would want to face the duo on the ice.

If McCrimmon and the Golden Knights are serious about winning another Stanley Cup, they must acquire Marner's services quickly. The team has a massive hole on the top line, which could be filled by a superstar of his caliber. Otherwise, those big moves will be all for naught.

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