The Vegas Golden Knights have made a significant addition to their roster by signing forward Brandon Saad to a one-year contract, as announced by General Manager Kelly McCrimmon on January 31, 2025. The deal is valued at an average annual salary of $1.5 million, covering the remainder of the 2024-25 NHL season.
Brandon Saad: A Veteran Presence
At 32 years old, Saad brings a wealth of experience to the Golden Knights. Over his 13-season career in the NHL, he has played in 906 games, most recently with the St. Louis Blues, where he was a free agent signing prior to the 2021-22 season. Last year, he demonstrated his scoring ability by netting 26 goals while participating in all 82 games for the Blues. In total, Saad has amassed 515 points, which include 260 goals and 255 assists, along with a +37 plus/minus rating.
Career Highlights
- Saad has consistently been a reliable scorer, reaching at least 20 goals in seven different seasons.
- He has played over 70 games in nine different campaigns, showcasing his durability and fitness.
- Since his debut with the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2012-13 season, Saad ranks third among American-born players in regular-season games played and tenth in goals scored.
Playoff Experience
Saad’s contributions extend beyond the regular season. He is a two-time Stanley Cup champion, having won titles with the Blackhawks in 2013 and 2015. His postseason resume includes 103 playoff games, where he tallied 55 points—27 goals and 28 assists—while maintaining a +17 rating. During Chicago’s 2015 Cup run, he was particularly effective, finishing with eight goals, ranking third on the team.
Background and Development
Originally drafted in the second round (43rd overall) of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft by the Blackhawks, Saad honed his skills in the Ontario Hockey League with the Saginaw Spirit and the USA Hockey National Team Development Program before turning professional. His journey through youth hockey prepared him well for the rigors of the NHL.
Player Profile
- Name: Brandon Saad
- Position: Forward
- Birthplace: Pittsburgh, PA
- Height: 6’1″
- Weight: 215 lbs.
- Age: 32
- Shooting Hand: Left
As the Golden Knights look to enhance their competitiveness this season, Saad’s experience and scoring prowess are expected to play a crucial role in their quest for success. With a history of clutch performances and a solid track record, he could be a key player in the team’s strategy moving forward.
About the Vegas Golden Knights
The Vegas Golden Knights, a franchise in the National Hockey League, have quickly established themselves as a competitive force since their inception. Owned by Black Knight Sports and Entertainment LLC, the team made history in the 2017-18 season as one of the most successful expansion teams in North American sports history, culminating in a Stanley Cup victory in the 2022-23 season.
