Golden Knights Gamble, Give Defenseman Four-Year Extension

On Wednesday, the Vegas Golden Knights announced an extension for defenseman Kaedan Korczak. The contract, beginning in the 2026–27 season, runs for four years with an average annual value of $3.25 million.

The 6’4”, 24-year-old right-shot defenseman played 40 games with the Golden Knights last season. He’s played 77 career NHL games and has recorded one goal and 21 points.

This extension sends a clear message that the Golden Knights see Korczak, not just as a full-time NHLer, but also as Alex Pietrangelo’s replacement. Kelly McCrimmon said this during his press conference on Tuesday. 

“I think the obvious candidate for more responsibility is Kaedan Korczak,” McCrimmon said. “He’s going to be an every-night player; we are really confident that he can be.”

Alex Pietrangelo, who announced on Monday that he’d be stepping away from hockey to focus on his health, gave Korczak his vote of confidence.

“That was one of the things Alex [Pietrangelo] brought up,” said McCrimmon. “He thinks [Korczak] is ready to be a really good NHL player for a long time, and so do we.”

McCrimmon referenced Pavel Dorofeyev as a player who rose to the occasion when given more responsibilities. 

“Sometimes, you need that opportunity to take a step,” said McCrimmon. “You have to be ready for it when the opportunity comes, or you don’t get to keep it. But there’s a little more opportunity back there [on defense] for some guys that I think will step into it.”

This extension is a gamble, and only time will tell if it’s a smart one. By signing him now, the Golden Knights are betting on Korczak big time. 

There are two ways this plays out. If Korczak plays well, this deal could end up looking like a steal. If not…

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