Golden Knights Secure Shea Theodore with Lengthy Extension
In a decisive move reflecting their commitment to maintaining a strong defensive lineup, the Vegas Golden Knights have signed Shea Theodore to a substantial seven-year contract extension. Valued at just under $52 million, Theodore's contract will begin with the start of the upcoming season, inserting him firmly into the long-term plans of the Las Vegas franchise.
The deal, carrying an annual salary cap hit of $7.425 million, underscores Theodore's value to the Golden Knights since his arrival in 2017. During his tenure with the team, Theodore has amassed an impressive 67 goals and 229 assists, cementing his reputation as a pivotal part of the team's defensive core. His contribution to the 2023 Stanley Cup playoffs, where he tallied 13 points in 21 games and maintained a plus-10 goal differential during five-on-five play, further exemplifies his crucial role in the team's recent successes.
Strength in Defense
With this extension, the Golden Knights ensure that their blue line remains one of their strengths for the foreseeable future. Alongside Theodore, stalwarts like Alex Pietrangelo and Noah Hanifin are under contract through at least the 2026-27 season. This depth in defense suggests a stable and promising foundation for Las Vegas, as they continue to aim for championship glory in the coming seasons.
In contrast, the Toronto Maple Leafs have been equally proactive within the league, securing defenseman Jake McCabe through the 2028-29 season. McCabe's extension includes an average annual value of $4.51 million, demonstrating Toronto's commitment to bolstering their defensive ranks.
Beyond Vegas: Other Noteworthy Extensions
Beyond Las Vegas, several teams are making key moves to lock in their talents. The St. Louis Blues and their burgeoning star, Jake Neighbours, have agreed on a two-year extension lasting through the 2026-27 season. Drafted 26th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, Neighbours is coming off a strong season, having netted 27 goals in 77 games — a promising sign for the Blues' offensive prospects.
In the realm of goaltending, Jake Oettinger has sealed an eight-year extension with the Dallas Stars. Displaying a steadfast presence between the pipes, Oettinger recorded a .913 save percentage in the 2023-24 postseason, further bolstered by saving 4.1 goals above average — a testament to his reliability under playoff pressure.
Meanwhile, Linus Ullmark, recognized for his stellar performance in recent years, has committed to a four-year extension with the Ottawa Senators, fresh off winning the Vezina Trophy in 2023. Ullmark’s decision to stay with the Senators reaffirms Ottawa's status as a serious competitor in the pursuit of a postseason breakthrough.
A Broader Look at Team Strategies
The array of extensions across the league points to a focused strategy by franchises to secure vital pieces of their roster as the NHL progresses into a new competitive chapter. The contracts signed by Theodore, McCabe, Neighbours, Oettinger, and Ullmark highlight each team's strategy to build a deeply-rooted core capable of challenging in the seasons to come.
Theodore’s commitment to the Golden Knights, in particular, reflects not only his individual ambitions but also the franchise's unwavering belief in his ability to drive impactful play on the ice. As the new season looms, the Vegas Golden Knights, armed with their strengthened defense, appear poised to once again vie for the highest accolades in hockey.