The Vegas Golden Knights have made a significant move by acquiring top forward Mitch Marner from the Toronto Maple Leafs, signing him to an eight-year contract worth $96 million. This trade effectively removes Marner from the upcoming free agency, bringing his impressive 102-point performance from last season to Vegas. The Maple Leafs, in return, receive center Nicolas Roy, who contributed 31 points last season, in addition to a trade involving defenseman Nicolas Hague to bolster their roster.

Marner, who ranked fifth in Maple Leafs history with 741 points, will become the highest-paid player on the Golden Knights at an average of $12 million per season, surpassing Jack Eichel, who has a cap hit of $10 million and is in the final year of his contract. The Golden Knights had to make roster adjustments to accommodate Marner's salary, indicating a strategic shift in their approach as they gear up for a competitive season.