Following his deal with the Nashville Predators, former Stanley Cup and Conn Smythe winner Jonathan Marchessault criticized the Vegas Golden Knights in recent comments.
Jonathan Marchessault is undoubtedly a formidable presence on the ice. Shortly after helping the Vegas Golden Knights win the Stanley Cup, he proudly hoisted the Conn Smythe Trophy he earned in 2023.
"The Conn Smythe Trophy winner is officially recognized on the trophy. @GoldenKnights and #stanleycup champion Jonathan Marchessault is etched forever. @NHL @HockeyHallFame"
However, he wasn't deemed valuable enough to remain with Vegas for the upcoming season. Marchessault entered free agency and was among several notable players picked up by the Nashville Predators, including former Tampa Bay Lightning star forward Steven Stamkos and Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Brady Skjei.
"Breaking: The Predators are adding star forward Steven Stamkos, former Conn Smythe winner Jonathan Marchessault and Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Brady Skjei."
While some players might simply be content with securing a new contract in the premier hockey league, Marchessault expressed frustration towards his former team. Speaking to TSN, the ex-Golden Knight criticized Vegas for what he perceived as a lack of effort to retain him on their roster.
"I don't think they tried their best to keep me."
Jonathan Marchessault is among several prominent players to depart Vegas. Predictably, Golden Knights GM Kelly McCrimmon sought to reassure fans concerned about the team's direction by asserting his superior understanding of the situation compared to theirs.
"'Fans think they know our players. I know our players better.'
After a surge of Golden Knights offseason departures, GM Kelly McCrimmon closes his presser with this statement.
"Part of the reason we won the Stanley Cup is we had so many players outperform their contract.'"
With multiple key assets leaving the team, it's challenging to have confidence in McCrimmon's strategy and intentions for the Vegas Golden Knights. Nevertheless, Nashville fans can be confident that Jonathan Marchessault will contribute significantly to the team's success in the foreseeable future.