Here are three free agents the Vegas Golden Knights can poach from the Metropolitan Division.
Everyone adores a heartfelt reunion. It evokes nostalgia and warmth, putting a wide grin on our faces. Yet, sometimes, reunions take unexpected forms, serving as cost-effective solutions aimed at bolstering a team’s roster.
Consider David Perron, who played a pivotal role in propelling the Vegas Golden Knights to the Stanley Cup Finals in their inaugural season. This season, Perron contributed significantly to the Detroit Red Wings’ near playoff berth, tallying 17 goals and 30 assists, including seven goals and 10 assists on the power play.
While some may assume Perron is familiar with the Golden Knights, the reality differs. Several key figures from the miraculous 2017-18 campaign, such as Marc-Andre Fleury and Reilly Smith, have moved on. Even the head coach, Gerard Gallant, has been replaced by Bruce Cassidy, who brought the team its first Stanley Cup victory.
Considering Perron’s potential return, it’s crucial to assess his potential impact under the current coaching regime. What attributes could he offer that the team has lacked since its inception? Conversely, what factors might deter Vegas from pursuing this deal? These questions add an air of mystery and intrigue to the prospect of his signing.
Analyzing David Perron
David Perron is renowned for his tenure with the St. Louis Blues, where he amassed 196 goals and 269 assists over 11 seasons. Notably, he contributed 55 goals and 95 assists on the power play, showcasing his adept offensive skills.
Moreover, Perron is not solely known for his offensive prowess but also for his physicality, having delivered 1,403 hits throughout his 17-year NHL career. His ability to impose himself physically, despite his size (6’0″, 195 lbs), is highly regarded and aligns with the Golden Knights’ style of play, emphasizing physicality and defensive awareness.
During his stint with Vegas in their inaugural season, Perron recorded 16 goals and 50 assists, setting a franchise-high in assists. Seventeen of those assists came on the power play, indicating his potential value to the team’s special teams unit, which has struggled since its inception.
Potential Drawbacks of Reuniting with Perron
One potential concern is Perron’s age; he will turn 36 at the end of May. Therefore, a one-year contract may be more suitable, considering the increased susceptibility to injuries and potential decline in performance associated with aging players.
While the idea of nostalgia holds appeal, it may offer little beyond depth at the forward position and reminiscences of past glories. Additionally, there remains the possibility that Perron chooses to re-sign with the Red Wings, given his expressed desire to remain in Detroit.
Nevertheless, the Golden Knights are in need of forward depth in the free agency market, particularly considering their challenging salary cap situation. Reuniting with a player who contributed to their historic inaugural season and potentially reigniting some of that magic could prove beneficial. Who knows, Perron may seamlessly integrate with the current roster, much like he did when the team first entered the NHL.
