Your 2025-26 Vegas Golden Knights Hockey Guide
The Vegas Golden Knights lifted the cup for the first time in franchise history in 2022-23. The following season, the NHL expansion hockey team fought to defend its title but was knocked out in the first round of the playoffs. The 2024-25 season saw the core team return, which helped them become Pacific Division champions before finding elimination in the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The Golden Knights are looking to take home the trophy once again this season, and they might just be able to do it. The 2025 NHL season looks like it’s going to be the most exciting yet. So, what can we expect from the Vegas Golden Knights team this season? Let’s break it down as we review the past and look into the future for the 2025 NHL season.
Looking Back on Previous VGK Seasons
In the 2023-24 season, the Las Vegas Golden Knights entered the Stanley Cup Playoffs as the second wild card in the West, but they lost in the first round (4-3) to the Dallas Stars. The Knights finished the regular season in 4th place in the Pacific Division and 8th place in the Western Conference. Overall, the team had a 45-29-8 record. Jonathan Marchessault led the Knights with 42 goals and 27 assists, while Jack Eichel added 31 goals and 37 assists, and William Karlsson knocked in 30 goals and 30 assists.
The Golden Knights improved in the 2024-25 season, finishing first in the Pacific Division and second in the Western Conference. The team’s overall record was 50-22-10. According to ESPN, their power play percentage was 28.3%, ranking 2nd in the league. While their regular season was successful, their playoff run ended sooner than many expected. The Golden Knights will look to go even further in the 2025-26 season.
Top Vegas Golden Knights Players to Watch
The Golden Knights are heading into their 9th NHL season since their debut in 2017-18. Bruce Cassidy returns as head coach, with Mark Stone as captain, with alternate captains Jack Eichel, William Karlsson, and Alex Pietrangelo. While top player Jonathan Marchessault recently signed a five-year deal with the Nashville Predators, the Golden Knights still have a strong roster this year, all thanks to a mixture of veteran players and new talent.
Here are a few Golden Knights players to watch:
Up top, Mark Stone’s leadership is a key component of the Knights’ success. If he stays healthy, the team captain is one of the best forwards in hockey. A true force in front of the net, Stone generates scoring chances while also being a strong defensive player, with a high number of takeaways and blocked shots.
Jack Eichel’s most productive season as a Golden Knight was last year, where he really got to shine in the playoffs. Now entering his third full season with the Knights, the 27-year-old center is one to watch, especially if he keeps his 80-point range.
Tomáš Hertl is a dynamic forward who was acquired by the Golden Knights at the end of the 2023-24 season. He was limited by injuries last season but is a two-time 30-goal scorer who is hoping to reach that mark again this season.
On defense, Alex Pietrangelo, a veteran defenseman and strong leader, is known for his defensive prowess, with a high number of blocked shots and takeaways. He is considered one of the top defensemen on the team.
Shea Theodore is possibly one of the best shutout defensemen in the league, and Noah Hanifin is a mobile defenseman with strong offensive instincts.
In goal will be Adin Hill, the keeper who led the Golden Knights to the Stanley Cup title in 2023. While he’s struggled with injuries, he’s a talented player who can dominate games.
Recently acquired from the Toronto Maple Leafs, Mitch Marner is new to the roster and a strong addition to the team.
Golden Knights Schedule Highlights
The 2025 NHL schedule is jam-packed with fun games, and the Knights are no different. The Vegas Golden Knights’ schedule for the regular season starts on October 8, 2025, with a home opener at T‑Mobile Arena against the LA Kings.
One of the most anticipated NHL games this season will be on January 23, 2026, when Vegas Golden Knights play the Toronto Maple Leafs as Mitch Marner returns to Toronto for the first time after joining the Golden Knights. Fans anticipate emotions running high when Marner enters his former stomping ground.
At the end of the season, the final two regular-season games are confirmed as home matchups on April 13 vs. Winnipeg and April 15 vs. Seattle.
Vegas Golden Knights 2025-26 Season Outlook
Despite an early playoff exit last year, the Golden Knights are still a talented squad, with elite goaltending, a deep forward group, and one of the league’s best blue lines. The addition of Marner, a healthy Eichel, and the return of Mark Stone make this team one to watch.
The only real question is durability. If they can stay healthy, especially during the stretch run, the Knights will easily be a championship contender. Will they win the Cup? Expect a busy 2025 NHL schedule, another playoff berth – and perhaps even another Pacific Division title.
How to Bet on Hockey in Las Vegas
Now that you’re updated about the Golden Knights this season, it’s time to place your bets. And what better place to bet on the VGK than right in their home town? Circa Sports is the ultimate sportsbook in Las Vegas for betting on hockey. Stop by Circa Resort, the D, or one of the other Circa Sports locations in Las Vegas to place your bets in person. Can’t make it into the sportsbook? Download the Circa Sports app on iOS or Android to have your bookie right in your pocket.
Whether in person or on the app, join Circa Sports for your premier place to bet on hockey in Vegas.
