The Vegas Golden Knights are expected to make some roster adjustments before Friday’s NHL trade deadline, though a major blockbuster trade seems unlikely. General manager Kelly McCrimmon has shown a willingness to act, but after acquiring Rasmus Andersson in January, the team appears more focused on modest upgrades to address current struggles.
As the Golden Knights conclude their five-game road trip this week, including a Tuesday matchup against the Buffalo Sabres, the organization is considering options to improve depth, especially with questions surrounding William Karlsson’s availability for the rest of the season. The team is reportedly eyeing several players who could help shore up both the center and wing positions.
Jason Dickinson: A Defensive Center Option from Chicago
Jason Dickinson of the Chicago Blackhawks stands out as a possible third-line center addition. Chicago is in rebuild mode around star Connor Bedard and is expected to move some veteran players. Dickinson, a 30-year-old center, brings a defensive approach more than offensive firepower, having recorded six goals and 13 points this season. His $4.25 million cap hit and impending unrestricted free agency make him a notable candidate for Vegas if Karlsson cannot return this season.
Evan Rodrigues Could Provide Scoring Depth From Florida
Should the Florida Panthers decide to exit playoff contention, trade talks could intensify for players like Evan Rodrigues. The 32-year-old winger is a reliable secondary offensive contributor, delivering nearly 20 goals and 30 points this year. Rodrigues’s prior connection with Jack Eichel from their time in Buffalo could ease his transition to Vegas. He has one more season remaining on his contract at a $3 million cap hit, making him an attractive bottom-six scoring option for the Golden Knights.
Michael Bunting May Be Available if Nashville Shifts Into Seller Mode
The Nashville Predators are another team possibly heading for a fire sale if their playoff chances fade. Michael Bunting, a proven 20-goal scorer, would fit well as a lower-line scorer in Vegas’s lineup. Bunting has 13 goals and 31 points this season and is in the final year of his contract with a $4.5 million cap hit. Previous dealings between McCrimmon and Predators general manager Barry Trotz could facilitate a deal, building on past trades such as Nic Hague for Colton Sissons and Jeremy Lauzon.
Blake Coleman Represents a Veteran Scoring Threat from Calgary
Blake Coleman is another forward who could be available as the Calgary Flames struggle to secure a playoff spot. With 13 goals in 47 games this season and a history of two Stanley Cup wins, Coleman could bring valuable experience and offense to the Golden Knights. He is 34 years old with one year left on his contract, carrying a $4.9 million cap hit. The Flames’ ongoing selling mode and previous trade cooperation with Vegas, including the Andersson deal, could encourage further discussions led by general manager Craig Conroy.
Upcoming Matchup and Implications for the Golden Knights
As the Golden Knights weigh their trade options, they face the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, on Tuesday at 4 p.m. local time. This game will be broadcast on KMCC-34 and covered on radio by KFLG 94.7 FM and KKGK 1340 AM. How Vegas performs on this road trip, as well as developments involving Karlsson’s status, could influence late trade decisions and roster moves before the deadline.
These trade discussions highlight the balance the Golden Knights must strike between improving the lineup for a potential playoff push and managing salary cap constraints amid uncertainty around key players. The moves made in the next few days will reveal how the organization plans to position itself for the remainder of this challenging season.
