NHL Rumors: Vegas Could Make Surprising Move In Order To Re-Sign Jonathan Marchessault

As the Vegas Golden Knights navigate a busy offseason, speculation intensifies around the potential trade of defenseman Shea Theodore to alleviate cap space constraints.

With the need to free up cap space for re-signing forward Jonathan Marchessault, Theodore emerges as a key figure in the team's financial strategy.

Despite his significant role and impressive performances, the emergence of other talents like Noah Hanifin and Theodore's high market value make him a prime candidate for a trade.

Filthy move by Shea Theodore in the shootout#VegasBorn pic.twitter.com/7r9s74Ah3c
— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) October 18, 2023

The Golden Knights face the tough decision of balancing Theodore’s contributions against the need to manage their salary cap effectively.

This past season, Theodore recorded five goals, 37 assists, 42 total points, a +4 plus/minus rating, and 78 blocked shots across 47 games played.

Theodore, at 28 years old and entering his prime, has proven himself as a top-tier defenseman, characterized by his offensive capabilities and defensive reliability.

SHEESH SHEA THEODORE 😳 pic.twitter.com/M2U8acTqZc
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) June 4, 2023

Theodore has one year remaining on his 7-year, $36.4M contract ($5.2M AAV), signed back in 2018.

His departure would undoubtedly impact the team's dynamics, but the potential return from a trade could provide the Golden Knights with essential assets to reinforce other areas of the roster or secure crucial signings like Marchessault. The decision involves weighing the immediate financial benefits against the long-term implications of losing a cornerstone player.

While the Golden Knights have not officially declared their intentions, the possibility and other whisperings of speculation of trading Theodore to free up cap space presents a logical, albeit difficult, solution to their financial dilemmas.

Over his seven seasons with Vegas, Theodore has 66 goals, 223 assists, 289 total points, a +67 plus/minus rating, and 534 blocked shots across 444 games played.

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