The exit of a key offensive contributor from the Vegas Golden Knights could further motivate the team to intensify its efforts to acquire Mitch Marner, who appears to be nearing the end of his time with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Golden Knights face a significant obstacle as they prepare for next season. Despite aiming to remain among the NHL’s elite, a recent setback has made their interest in Marner — Toronto’s standout forward — even more urgent.
The offseason often brings tough choices, not just for team executives seeking fresh talent, but also for star players who might be on the move. In this case, one of Vegas’ cornerstone players seems poised to depart.
With free agency looming on July 1, Marner is drawing serious interest from Vegas. The club has reportedly initiated conversations with Toronto about a potential sign-and-trade, and the loss of a key figure only adds urgency to their pursuit of the winger.
Who might be leaving Vegas?
According to Sportsnet 960’s Nick Kypreos, the Golden Knights are actively seeking a replacement for defenseman Alex Pietrangelo, whose future is in doubt. “He’s not coming back, and we don’t know if he’ll ever come back,” Kypreos said, citing injuries and personal matters that have cast uncertainty over Pietrangelo’s career.
Pietrangelo has been a vital part of Vegas’ blue line since joining the team in 2020, and his potential absence creates a significant gap in their defensive setup. Still, the franchise isn’t just focused on the back end — they’re also looking to strengthen their attack for the 2025–26 campaign.
Marner remains a top target for Vegas
Pietrangelo’s likely departure is a major reason the Golden Knights are zeroing in on Marner, exploring various ways to strike a deal with the Maple Leafs. However, concerns around possible tampering could complicate their pursuit of the Toronto star.
Leave a Reply