Contract Projections and Potential Trades
Analysts suggest Dorofeyev could command a contract worth $7.5 to $8.5 million annually, based on comparable deals like Jesper Bratt’s.
The rising salary cap and his playoff performance are expected to drive his value.
To create cap room, the Golden Knights may need to trade goaltender Adin Hill, who carries a $6.25 million cap hit and a 10-team no-trade clause.
Other unrestricted free agents include Reilly Smith, Brandon Saad, Colton Sissons, and Cole Smith.
Insider Gary Lawless said Dorofeyev likely wants to remain in Vegas due to the opportunity to play with elite centers like Eichel.
“He’s got an opportunity to play with very good centermen in Vegas,” Lawless said.
>>> Cubs' Pete Crow-Armstrong Error Leads to Brewers Run in Costly Loss
The team must also consider future extensions for core players Mark Stone, William Karlsson, and Nic Dowd, adding further pressure to the cap situation.