Ranking 10 greatest Vegas Golden Knights of all-time

Published: Monday, September 29, 2025 at 5:55 pm

Golden Knights' Greatest: A Look Back at Vegas's Impact Players

The Vegas Golden Knights, an expansion team that entered the National Hockey League in the 2017-18 season, have quickly established themselves as a force in the league. Despite entering with low expectations, the team defied odds in their inaugural season, reaching the Stanley Cup Final. This success was particularly poignant, as the team provided a source of unity and healing for the city following the tragic 2017 mass shooting.

In their seven seasons, the Golden Knights have only missed the playoffs once, culminating in a Stanley Cup victory last spring. The team's rapid rise has been fueled by a combination of shrewd player acquisitions and strategic roster management. The team has developed a reputation for making tough decisions, often trading away fan-favorite players. They have also drawn criticism for their salary cap maneuvers.

The team's success is largely attributed to the contributions of key players. Jonathan Marchessault, the 2023 Conn Smythe Trophy winner, has been a consistent performer. William Karlsson, another key player from the inaugural season, has been a mainstay in the lineup. Captain Mark Stone, acquired in 2019, has been a point-per-game player and led the team to their first Stanley Cup victory. Marc-Andre Fleury, the team's first official player, quickly became a fan favorite. Shea Theodore has been a steady presence on defense. Reilly Smith, another original player, played a key role in the 2023 Stanley Cup championship. Jack Eichel, acquired in a trade, helped lead the team to the Stanley Cup. Max Pacioretty was a top performer during his time with the team. Alex Pietrangelo, a Stanley Cup-winning defenseman, signed with the team in 2020. Adin Hill, the goaltender who backstopped the Golden Knights to the Stanley Cup in 2023, is remembered for his performance.

BNN's Perspective: The Golden Knights' quick ascent to the top of the NHL is a testament to their effective team-building strategies. While their approach to player management has been controversial, it has undeniably yielded results. The team's ability to adapt and compete at a high level makes them a compelling story in the world of professional sports.

Keywords: Vegas Golden Knights, NHL, Stanley Cup, Jonathan Marchessault, Mark Stone, Marc-Andre Fleury, Shea Theodore, William Karlsson, Jack Eichel, Alex Pietrangelo, Adin Hill, hockey, expansion team, sports.

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