Golden Knights Seek Depth, Goaltending Help Ahead of 2026 NHL Trade Deadline

Vegas Golden Knights look to address roster weaknesses as they aim to maintain Pacific Division lead

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Vegas Golden Knights, a perennial Stanley Cup contender, are facing some inconsistency in Year 9 of the franchise. While they currently sit atop the Pacific Division, the team has struggled at times and was recently blown out 5-0 by the Pittsburgh Penguins. Ahead of the March 6 trade deadline, the Golden Knights are looking to add a depth forward and shore up their goaltending, which has been an issue with Adin Hill and Akira Schmid not performing at an elite level. GM Kelly McCrimmon will have to be careful not to mortgage the future by trading away core players in pursuit of a "shiny superstar," but rather focus on finding the right complementary pieces to strengthen the roster.

Why it matters

The Golden Knights have set a high bar for themselves, having reached the Stanley Cup Final in their inaugural season and winning the title in Year 6. As a result, they are always viewed as a top contender, and their moves at the trade deadline will be closely watched as they aim to maintain their position atop the Pacific Division and make another deep playoff run.

The details

The Golden Knights currently have a 28-18-14 record, just one point ahead of the surprising Anaheim Ducks in the Pacific Division. They have been inconsistent this season, and the 5-0 loss to the Penguins was particularly concerning. Head coach Bruce Cassidy will look to motivate the team ahead of upcoming games against the Buffalo Sabres and Detroit Red Wings. The team needs to add a depth forward, with Jason Dickinson of the Chicago Blackhawks as a potential target, to strengthen their bottom six. The goaltending situation is also an issue, with neither Adin Hill nor Akira Schmid performing at an elite level. The Golden Knights may explore the trade market for a more reliable option in net, but GM Kelly McCrimmon will be cautious about overpaying.

  • The Golden Knights have a pair of road games this week prior to the March 6 trade deadline against the Buffalo Sabres and Detroit Red Wings.
  • The March 6 NHL trade deadline is the key date for the Golden Knights to address their roster needs.

The players

Bruce Cassidy

Head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights, known for his ability to motivate his team and hold them accountable.

Kelly McCrimmon

General manager of the Vegas Golden Knights, tasked with making the right moves to keep the team as a Stanley Cup contender.

Jason Dickinson

A 30-year-old center for the Chicago Blackhawks, known for his defensive play and ability to handle tough matchups.

Jordan Binnington

Goaltender for the St. Louis Blues, who may be available at the trade deadline but likely at a high cost.

Adin Hill

Goaltender for the Vegas Golden Knights, struggling with a .858 save percentage and 3.47 goals against average.

Akira Schmid

Goaltender for the Vegas Golden Knights, performing somewhat better than Hill with a .895 save percentage and 2.55 goals against average.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.