### Golden Knights Retain Key Players with New Contracts The Vegas Golden Knights have made significant moves in the offseason by re-signing forwards Reilly Smith and Brandon Saad, both of whom played pivotal roles in the team's recent success. Additionally, the team has signed defenseman Dylan Coghlan to bolster their roster. Smith, a veteran and one of the "Original Misfits," returns on a one-year, $2 million contract, while Saad also signs a one-year deal worth $2 million. Coghlan, who has a history with the Golden Knights, joins the team on a one-year contract with a cap hit of $775,000. These signings reflect the Golden Knights' strategy to maintain a competitive lineup while integrating familiar faces into their roster for the upcoming season [https://www.nhl.com/news/reilly-smith-brandon-saad-sign-1-year-contract-with-vegas-golden-knights, https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/golden_knights_sign_defenseman_dylan_coghlan_to_one-year-contract/s1_16958_42402030]. ### Breakdown of Recent Signings and Their Impact 1. **Reilly Smith's Return** - Smith, 34, has been a crucial part of the Golden Knights since their inception in 2017. After a brief stint with the New York Rangers and a trade back to Vegas, he has signed a one-year extension worth $2 million, which includes a no-trade clause. Last season, he recorded 40 points in 79 games, contributing significantly during the playoffs [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/golden_knights_sign_reilly_smith_brandon_saad_cole_reinhardt_to_contracts/s1_16958_42402922, https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/45584950/reports-golden-knights-f-reilly-smith-agree-1-yr-2m-deal]. 2. **Brandon Saad's Signing** - Saad, who joined the Golden Knights mid-season, has also been re-signed for one year at $2 million. He had a productive run with the team, scoring six goals and 14 points in 29 games after being acquired. His performance in the playoffs further solidified his value to the team [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/golden_knights_sign_reilly_smith_brandon_saad_cole_reinhardt_to_contracts/s1_16958_42402922, https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/golden_knights_close_to_re_signing_another_midseason_pickup/s1_17391_42377845]. 3. **Dylan Coghlan's Addition** - The Golden Knights have also signed defenseman Dylan Coghlan to a one-year contract with a cap hit of $775,000. Coghlan, who has previously played for the Golden Knights, adds depth to the defensive lineup and has shown potential as a two-way player [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/golden_knights_sign_defenseman_dylan_coghlan_to_one-year-contract/s1_16958_42402030]. ### Summary of Key Signings and Their Implications In summary, the Vegas Golden Knights have successfully retained key players and added depth to their roster through strategic signings. 1. **Reilly Smith**: - One-year contract worth $2 million. - Key contributor with 40 points last season. - Integral part of the team's history and success. 2. **Brandon Saad**: - One-year contract worth $2 million. - Effective mid-season acquisition with playoff experience. 3. **Dylan Coghlan**: - One-year contract with a $775,000 cap hit. - Adds defensive depth and familiarity with the organization. These moves indicate the Golden Knights' commitment to maintaining a competitive team while leveraging the experience and skills of returning players as they prepare for the upcoming season [https://www.nhl.com/news/reilly-smith-brandon-saad-sign-1-year-contract-with-vegas-golden-knights, https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/golden_knights_sign_defenseman_dylan_coghlan_to_one-year-contract/s1_16958_42402030].
