The Golden Knights are built for big moments — and they’re never afraid to make bold moves.
After adding more offensive flair and retaining much of their Cup-winning identity, Vegas looks recharged. Their blue line remains a fortress, led by Shea Theodore, while the forward core — Jack Eichel, Tomas Hertl and newcomer Mitch Marner — has enough skill to overwhelm anyone.
The team’s hallmark is depth: fourth-liners can contribute, and coach Bruce Cassidy always gets buy-in defensively. Goaltending remains the variable, but the Knights thrive on chaos and experience. Few organizations understand playoff intensity like Vegas, and that keeps them firmly in the contender’s circle.
Adin Hill
That said, Hill is not without flaws—consistency has sometimes been an issue, and he can struggle when left exposed for too long.
Fortunately for him, Vegas boasts one of the deeper and more structured defensive groups in the league, which plays a huge role in masking some of his weaknesses. With the Golden Knights’ strong blue line in front of him, Hill has the support system needed to succeed.
Brayden McNabb
Brayden McNabb—without saying he's perfect—is a truly high-quality defenseman.
He's truly solid in his own zone and is one of the most reliable players in the National Hockey League. His contribution to the Golden Knights' blue line is considerable, as he can also be a pillar on the penalty kill.
Generally, we talk about a complete defenseman. McNabb isn't the most offensive defenseman in the National Hockey League, but he's still capable of averaging around 20 points per season—and that's perfect. At 34, his reputation is already established in the NHL.
Shea Theodore
His smooth skating, puck-moving ability, and offensive instincts make him a constant threat from the blue line, while his poise under pressure allows him to excel in all situations.
Theodore has the rare combination of skill and composure that lets him dictate play, whether it’s driving offense on the power play or shutting down top opposition forwards. For the Golden Knights, he is not just a key piece of their defensive core, but also a player capable of turning the tide of a game on his own.
Noah Hanifin
Noah Hanifin has proven to be quite the acquisition for the Knights.
He arrived in Vegas from Calgary, and since his arrival there, we've really felt he's a great addition to the team because his addition has really stabilized Vegas' defense. He's good offensively, he's reliable in all three zones, he can play both on the power play and penalty kill...
Hanifin may not necessarily be among the league's elite, but he's not far off either. His skills make him an excellent first-pair defenseman, and every team in the league could benefit from a player like him.
Pavel Dorofeyev
Pavel Dorofeyev's name may be a little unknown to fans. But... in his second full season in the NHL, he's proven he has the talent of a guy who could have been drafted in the first round - even though he was selected by the Knights in the third round of the 2019 draft.
The reason is simple: in 82 games last season, Dorofeyev scored no fewer than... 35 goals. He finished the season as his team's leading scorer and will still have the tools to score more in the coming years with existing players like Mitch Marner and Jack Eichel.
Dorofeyev doesn't have the best skating, it's not always elegant... but his shot makes up for it. When he's alone in the slot, he's dangerous... and we're also talking about a player who can score from anywhere on the ice.
Tomas Hertl
William Karlsson
Mark Stone
Do we really need an introduction to talk about Mark Stone?
This player is so effective on the forecheck because he's able to steal the puck from any opponent... and this player is also capable of producing offensively when needed.
Mark Stone is a complete forward who can be used in any situation and plays a major role in his club's success - especially when he's healthy. He hasn't had it easy in recent years because he's often sidelined, but at 100%... he's one of the best players in the NHL. And it's not for nothing that the Golden Knights decided to put the "C" on his jersey.
Mitch Marner
Marner is not just about offense, though—he’s also one of the league’s most effective defensive forwards, capable of killing penalties and using his hockey IQ to anticipate plays on both sides of the puck.
He thrives in transition, where his speed and creativity shine, and he has the unique ability to dictate the pace of a game. For the Maple Leafs to contend at the highest level, Marner’s consistency and leadership will be absolutely crucial.
Jack Eichel
Eichel’s shot is lethal, but what makes him special is his ability to blend scoring touch with strong playmaking skills, making him a constant dual threat in the offensive zone. Since joining Vegas, he’s proven that he can deliver in high-pressure moments, including on the biggest stage during the playoffs.
As he continues to grow into a leadership role, Eichel represents the future of the Golden Knights and gives them a legitimate superstar presence down the middle.