Golden Knights could move on from Alex Pietrangelo this summer

The Vegas Golden Knights' defense could look very different in 2025-26.

According to NHL Analyst Nick Kypreos, the Golden Knights are trying to replace Pietrangelo on the right side of the defense.

Despite being 35 years old, Pietrangelo is still a trustworthy top-4 defenseman who would make for a fine add to any contender in need of a RHD or a rebuilding team in need of veteran leadership.

Pietrangelo’s scoring is not what it once was, as he has recorded 4 goals and 33 points in each of the past two campaigns. But, he also led Vegas in average time on ice among skaters and is still a key piece of their penalty kill.

The two-time Stanley Cup winner (2019 with the St. Louis Blues, 2023 with the Golden Knights) has been an alternate captain for Vegas since joining the team for the 2020-21 season.

The Golden Knights are also rumored to be heavily involved in the Mitch Marner sweepstakes, and would need to move money around for that to become a reality.

Vegas currently has about $5.6 million in cap space, and Pietrangelo is owed $8.8 million this year and next. Freeing up the Pietrangelo contract would likely give the front office enough room for Marner.

The problem with moving Pietrangelo, however, is that there is no clear heir plan. Left-handed defenseman Shea Theodore already plays on his off-side, and Zach Whitecloud would be the Golden Knights’ best true righty on the back end.

If this is the end of the Pietrangelo in Vegas era, then what a ride it has been.