Reilly Smith has officially re-signed with the Vegas Golden Knights, agreeing to a one-year contract valued at $2 million. This deal includes a full no-trade clause. As one of the original "Misfits" from the franchise's inaugural season, Smith was pivotal in the Knights' Stanley Cup victory in 2023. After a brief stint with the Pittsburgh Penguins, he returned to Vegas during the last season's trade deadline. Last year, he recorded 40 points, 11 of which came during his return with the Knights.

Securing Smith at a cap-friendly rate allows Vegas GM Kelly McCrimmon to strategize aggressively in the upcoming free agency. The team may need to navigate potential roster changes, especially with Alex Pietrangelo's ongoing health issues, which could lead to his placement on long-term injured reserve.

Reilly Smith, a stalwart of the Vegas Golden Knights since their inaugural season in 2017, has secured a one-year, $2 million contract extension, including a no-trade clause. After a six-season tenure with the Knights, Smith was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2023 but returned to Vegas before the playoffs where he recorded three goals and eight assists in 21 games. Despite his point totals being far from his peak, Smith remains a pivotal figure in the franchise, ranking third in goals and fifth in assists. This extension reflects the demand for veteran forwards this summer.

The NHL trade landscape is heating up with teams exploring options for potential player acquisitions. The Buffalo Sabres are holding tight to Alex Tuch, with reports stating that they will not move him unless a team overpays. Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens are eyeing Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Nick Perbix, who is set to become a restricted free agent this summer. Perbix could serve as a replacement for the retired David Savard and allow prospects like David Reinbacher to develop in the AHL.

In other news, the Edmonton Oilers are rumored to be considering an offer sheet for St. Louis Blues goaltender Joel Hofer, who is currently stuck behind Jordan Binnington. This $4.6 million offer sheet would only cost the Oilers a second-round pick, which has been met with a strong response from Blues GM Doug Armstrong, indicating they would match any offer. The Toronto Maple Leafs are also exploring free agency, with names like Brad Marchand and Sam Bennett on their radar as they look to bolster their roster for the next season.

The Edmonton Oilers faced a heartbreaking defeat against the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 3 of their playoff series, with Reilly Smith scoring a last-minute goal that silenced the Oilers' fans. The Oilers were without goalie Calvin Pickard, sidelined by a lower-body injury from Game 2, placing immense pressure on Stuart Skinner, who allowed four goals in the previous game. Coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledged Skinner's efforts but emphasized the need for better defensive performance in front of him.

With Game 4 looming, Skinner must elevate his game to help the Oilers regain dominance and take a 3-1 series lead. His playoff stats, including a 2.45 GAA and .901 save percentage, highlight his potential, but consistency is key as the team faces a formidable Golden Knights offense.

The Vegas Golden Knights stunned the Edmonton Oilers with a dramatic last-second goal from Reilly Smith, sealing a crucial Game 3 win that prevented a 3-0 series deficit. The goal, executed with just 0.4 seconds remaining, highlighted Smith's quick forechecking and timing. He credited teammate William Karlsson for the setup, showcasing the team's resilience and ability to perform under pressure. This victory not only keeps the Golden Knights' playoff hopes alive but also adds pressure on the Oilers, who were poised to take a commanding lead.