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It seems like the Vegas Golden Knights are always sniffing around for an elite talent near the trade deadline. They’ve been successful in the past, landing winger Mark Stone in 2019 and winger Tomas Hertl and defenseman Noah Hanifin in 2024.
With the bulk of Panarin’s $11.6 million cap hit being paid out by March 6, the Golden Knights could have sufficient wiggle room to acquire him. They have $4.3 million in projected trade deadline cap space.
The Golden Knights have been in “win-now” mode since their debut in 2017-18. They usually find a way to land big stars, with the latest being their acquisition of winger Mitch Marner from the Toronto Maple Leafs last June.
Panarin could interest the Golden Knights, whose offense could use a boost this season. The opportunity for them to land another elite offensive star, even as a playoff rental, could be irresistible. It could work to their benefit if they’re among a limited list of Panarin’s preferred trade destinations.
The Golden Knights have demonstrated a willingness to sacrifice draft picks and prospects to acquire immediate roster help. They don’t have a first-round pick in this year’s draft, but could part with their 2027 first-rounder and prospect forward Trevor Connelly as part of a package for Panarin.