Golden Knights Defenseman on Block; Canadiens, Penguins Interested

Just five days after appearing on Nick Kypreos’ Offseason Trade Board, Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Nic Hague once again finds his name in trade talks. According to Kypreos, the Montreal Canadiens and the Pittsburgh Penguins are both trying to acquire Hague.

The tough-as-nails 6’6” defenseman has frequented trade rumor reports since the Edmonton Oilers eliminated the Golden Knights from the postseason. 

Hague is a tough customer, unafraid to drop the gloves to stick up for a teammate. He’s nasty in front of the net. He doesn’t always play up to his size, but he’s plenty physical. Hague isn’t exactly an offensive defenseman, but he moves the puck reasonably well. 

However, because the Golden Knights are strapped for cash, it seems highly unlikely that they will be able to extend Hague.

In addition to having limited salary cap space, the Golden Knights have a logjam at left defense– Hague sits behind Noah Hanifin and Brayden McNabb on the depth chart. So, even if the reports about Alex Pietrangelo are true, he has no easy path to increased ice time. 

Hague, 26, is a Restricted Free Agent. Thus, any team that trades for him would only acquire his rights. He just finished a three-year, $2,294,150 contract and is seeking a significant pay raise. 

The Golden Knights would probably like nothing more than to keep Hague– he’s big, young, and physical. Unfortunately, they just can’t afford to. AFPAnalytics projects his next contract to be two years, $2,639,381,25– but I’d bet he’s asking for more. I’d also bet that any team that can afford to pay Hague will gladly meet his asking price.

Because he’s not under contract, it’s hard to say what Hague might go for. Both the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Montreal Canadiens have been stockpiling draft picks, and the Golden Knights are likely interested in replenishing their draft capital.

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