From a lower tier player to a center on their top line. The Golden Knights acquired Stephenson in 2019, seeing him transition into a key player.
Stephenson has consistently scored over 50 points in his three seasons, exceeding 60 points twice. His strong defensive skills also make him an ideal second line center for any team eyeing the Stanley Cup.
Insider David Pagnotta hinted at Stephensons contract talks mentioning teams like Boston, Vancouver, Toronto, Washington, Carolina and Nashville as suitors if he doesn't stick with Vegas due to pricing concerns.
At 30 years old and in his prime, Stephenson is likely to prioritize a longer term deal when choosing his team. Toronto's scenario could be, with Auston Matthews and John Tavares anchoring the two center positions. They may need to consider either slotting Stephenson on the wing or exploring a trade to accommodate him.
Similarly, Vancouver poses a situation with JT Miller, Elias Pettersson and Elias Lindholm in the center mix. If Stephenson joins them, Vancouver might have to part ways with one of these players, likely to be Lindholm.
Source: House of Hockey
Six teams emerge as fits for Vegas Golden Knights free agent Chandler Stephenson
POLL | ||
MAI 30 | 116 ANSWERS Six teams identified as landing spots for Golden Knights' Chandler Stephenson Do you think Chandler Stephenson will sign with any of the following teams? | ||
Vancouver Canucks | 38 | 32.8 % |
Toronto Maple Leafs | 25 | 21.6 % |
Boston Bruins | 40 | 34.5 % |
Washington Caps | 13 | 11.2 % |
List of polls |