The Vegas Golden Knights have finalized contracts with their restricted free agents Cole Schwindt, Rafael Lavoie, and Jonas Rondbjerg. These three forwards, who received qualifying offers from the team on June 30th, agreed to one-year deals just a week later.
Schwindt wrapped up his debut season with the Golden Knights, appearing in 42 games but missing time due to injuries. The 24-year-old returned for one game late in the season but did not participate in the playoffs. During the regular season, he tallied one goal and eight points. Before joining Vegas, Schwindt had played seven NHL games and quickly earned a spot on the fourth line, gaining the confidence of head coach Bruce Cassidy. He is poised to step in early next season if injury situations arise.
Lavoie had a unique preseason experience, moving between exemptions and claims by the Golden Knights and Edmonton Oilers before settling in Vegas. The 24-year-old appeared in nine NHL games without scoring, but he was productive with the Henderson Silver Knights in the AHL, scoring 17 goals and accumulating 27 points in 42 games. Boasting a strong shot and a 6-foot-4 frame, Lavoie could move between the AHL and NHL under his two-way contract. He may also qualify as a Group 6 unrestricted free agent at season’s end.
Rondbjerg signed a two-way contract as well, remaining a primary call-up option from the Silver Knights when injuries hit. The 26-year-old has played 13 NHL games without points but contributed 11 goals and 26 points in 53 AHL games this season.
With these deals done, the Golden Knights still need to handle contracts for RFAs Alexander Holtz and Lucas Cormier.
Fan Take: Securing Schwindt, Lavoie, and Rondbjerg ensures strong depth for the Golden Knights, vital for navigating injuries and maintaining competitive play. This could signal Vegas’s commitment to developing promising talent and sustaining their status as a playoff contender in the NHL.
