Vegas Golden Knights Have Cap Issues to Resolve to Sign Multiple Players

The Vegas Golden Knights are still chasing the Stanley Cup, yet the business side of the NHL never pauses. With a deep playoff run possible, general manager Kelly McCrimmon must soon address an extensive list of pending free agents and extensions. The team’s limited cap space will force difficult decisions before the July 1 deadline.

According to PuckPedia, Vegas enters next season with just $4.625 million in available cap room. Adding the $8.8 million relief from Alex Pietrangelo’s season-ending LTIR boosts that figure to roughly $13 million. That pool must cover extensions for Pavel Dorofeyev and Rasmus Andersson while also accounting for several notable unrestricted free agents.

Key players driving the offseason decisions

Vegas needs to retain production from its core while filling out the roster. Dorofeyev has emerged as a cornerstone after back-to-back 35-plus goal seasons and a strong playoff showing. Andersson, acquired at a steep price earlier this year, is also viewed as essential.

• Pavel Dorofeyev: 37 goals this season, 35 last year, full 82-game seasons both years
• Rasmus Andersson: proven playoff performer, third-round pick from 2019
• Other UFAs: Reilly Smith, Brandon Saad, Colton Sissons, Cole Smith

These names highlight the depth challenge ahead. The Golden Knights cannot simply rely on three lines; a functional fourth line remains necessary.

Insights from insiders on Dorofeyev’s future

Gary Lawless, the team’s radio color commentator, offered measured comments during a recent TFP Hotstove appearance. When pressed on Dorofeyev’s next AAV, Lawless stayed coy but stressed the player’s desire to stay long-term.

“You have to talk to him and Kelly McCrimmon and his agent,” Lawless said. “He is a good player, he’s proven himself in the playoffs, and he’s important to the organization. I’m sure they’ll figure it out.”

Lawless also noted the positive influence of playing alongside elite centers like Jack Eichel, drawing a parallel to Jonathan Marchessault’s experience away from that environment.

Navigating Adin Hill and other contracts

Adin Hill’s $6.25 million cap hit and 10-team no-trade list were discussed openly on the same show. Panelists Ryan Paton and Dave Pagnotta pointed out that Hill’s deal could be moved to create breathing room.

“They’re gonna have to figure it out,” Pagnotta said. “DB, you kind of hinted it a tad. Adin Hill, 10-team, no-trade list, $6.25 million cap hit.”

Dennis Bernstein added context on Dorofeyev’s value: “Nine goals in the playoffs. 46 goals in total. That’s a $10 million player, right?”

The group agreed the $8.8 million from Pietrangelo’s LTIR will likely anchor Dorofeyev’s new deal, leaving limited room for Andersson or other additions.

Additional extensions and potential trades

Mark Stone, William Karlsson, and Nic Dowd remain extension-eligible, adding further pressure. Tomas Hertl’s $6.75 million hit has also surfaced as a possible trade candidate to unlock more space.

Vegas has shown willingness in past summers to move contracts that no longer fit long-term plans. Capologists will work overtime to keep the roster competitive while satisfying multiple restricted and unrestricted free agents.

The Golden Knights have repeatedly demonstrated they are not afraid of bold roster maneuvers. With their eyes still on the ultimate prize this spring, the front office is already mapping out how to retain Dorofeyev, Andersson, and the supporting cast needed for another deep run.