Vegas Golden Knights restricted free agent Pavel Dorofeyev has become a key target for rival NHL teams considering offer sheets, as the franchise faces salary cap limitations heading into the summer.
The 25-year-old right winger posted consecutive 35-plus goal seasons and leads all postseason scorers with 10 goals, according to The Athletic.
>>> Max Muncy Avoids Wrist Fracture, Dodgers Adjust Lineup
Dorofeyev's two-year contract with an average annual value of $1.835 million expires on July 1. He will become a restricted free agent with arbitration rights.
The Golden Knights are projected to have about $11.7 million in cap flexibility once defenseman Alex Pietrangelo moves to long-term injured reserve.
However, retaining both Dorofeyev and unrestricted free-agent defenseman Rasmus Andersson would require roughly $16 million, per analytical reports.
Potential Offer Sheet Scenarios
Daily Faceoff analyst Jeff Marek suggested the Edmonton Oilers could offer Dorofeyev a two-year deal worth $11.9 million annually.
If Vegas declines to match, PuckPedia reports the Golden Knights would receive draft compensation: two first-round picks, one second-round pick, and one third-round pick.
>>> Pochettino Informs USMNT Players of World Cup Roster Selections
Golden Knights General Manager Kelly McCrimmon addressed the situation during a press conference before the Western Conference Final opener.
"Regarding Bruce Cassidy, teams have asked for permission to speak with Bruce," McCrimmon said.
"We've been consistent that our focus currently is on the Stanley Cup playoffs, and the teams have respected that."
In other league news, the Minnesota Wild are exploring the trade market for a top-line center.
General Manager Bill Guerin previously attempted to acquire Robert Thomas from the St. Louis Blues before the March trade deadline.
>>> Scott Wedgewood to Start in Goal for Avalanche in Game 2 vs. Golden Knights
The Pioneer Press reported that goaltender Jesper Wallstedt could be a trade asset, but the team is unlikely to move him until starter Filip Gustavsson fully recovers from offseason hip surgery.
