The Vegas Golden Knights captured their first Stanley Cup championship in franchise history on June 13, 2023, defeating the Florida Panthers 9-3 in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final. This victory marked a remarkable achievement for the Golden Knights, who joined the NHL as an expansion team six years earlier in 2017.
The team’s journey to the championship began with a significant change in leadership during the offseason. In June 2022, the Golden Knights hired Bruce Cassidy as their new head coach, which would prove instrumental in their success. Cassidy, who had previously led the Boston Bruins to six consecutive playoff appearances, brought a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the team.
Under Cassidy’s guidance, the Golden Knights finished the regular season as the Western Conference champions and carried that momentum into the playoffs. They overcame formidable opponents, including the Winnipeg Jets, Edmonton Oilers, and Dallas Stars, before facing the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final.
Conn Smyth Winner
Jonathan Marchessault’s playoff performance in 2023 was nothing short of exceptional, culminating in winning the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player of the playoffs. Throughout the postseason, Marchessault demonstrated his offensive prowess and clutch performances, leading the Golden Knights with 13 goals and 25 points in 22 games. Marchessault is the first undrafted player to win the award since Wayne Gretzky won it in 1985 and 1988.
He maintained a remarkable 10-game point streak during the Stanley Cup Playoffs, setting a new Golden Knights record. His ability to seize big moments was particularly noteworthy, as he scored crucial goals throughout Vegas’ playoff journey. Marchessault’s playoff statistics are impressive: 13 goals, 12 assists, a plus-minus of +17, 3 power-play goals, three power-play assists, and three game-winning goals. His shooting of 16.3% on 80 shots demonstrates his efficiency and ability to capitalize on scoring chances.
Vegas Golden Knights Roster
The Golden Knights’ championship roster blended original expansion draft selections, like Marchessault, and critical additions over the years. Players such as Mark Stone, the team’s captain, and Jack Eichel, who joined the team via trade, played significant roles in the playoff run. The team also benefited from the experience of former Stanley Cup champions like Alex Pietrangelo, Alec Martinez, and Jonathan Quick.
The victory was significant for the Las Vegas community, as the Golden Knights were the city’s first central professional sports team. The team’s success has solidified Las Vegas as a hockey town and set a new standard for expansion franchises in professional sports.
As the Golden Knights celebrated their championship, they paid tribute to their teammates, coaches, families, and the Las Vegas community that has supported them since their inception. The team’s journey from expansion draft to Stanley Cup champions in just six years is a testament to its strategic planning, player development, and strong bond with its fans.
