Golden Knights eye contract extension for Jack Eichel after early playoff exit: Report

The Vegas Golden Knights are now looking forward to their next step after experiencing a tough playoff loss. The squad was recently eliminated from the second round of the 2025 NHL Playoffs by the Edmonton Oilers. Although the pain is still raw, one critical decision is already ahead. A prominent player's contract situation has the potential to define the future of the team.


Jack Eichel's contract negotiations may start as soon as July 1

Following the Golden Knights' elimination by the Edmonton Oilers on May 18, 2025, in NHL playoffs action during the second round, everyone's attention was focused on Jack Eichel. Jack Eichel, a 27-year-old team star center, has only a year remaining on his existing eight-year contract. The contract, which is worth a total of $80 million, was signed in 2018 when he played for the Buffalo Sabres.

#Golden Knights head into offseason hoping to reach an extension with Jack Eichel  #US #LA #Celebrities #Lifestyle  https://t.co/ocmdrtJNfx

— Vaclav Pynzarien (@VPynzarien) May 17, 2025

NHL rules concerning player contracts state that players can start negotiations for an extension with their existing teams a year before their contract expiration date. Which means from July 1, 2025, the Golden Knights may commence negotiations with Jack Eichel to remain in Las Vegas long-term.


General manager Kelly McCrimmon has yet to issue a formal statement, but the team's inner circle informed NHL sources that retaining Jack Eichel in Las Vegas is a priority for the front office. Jack Eichel had an impressive playoff run, scoring 6 goals and contributing to 8 others, despite the team getting eliminated sooner than anticipated.


Eichel has been a central figure of the Golden Knights since his signing with them in November 2021. He contributed to the team when they claimed the Stanley Cup in 2023 and is still one of the best players in the league today. His leadership and abilities make him an asset of the team's future strategy.


Golden Knights looks ahead after playoff exit and turns to leadership for next moves

Following the loss to the Edmonton Oilers in Game 7, the team headed back home to Las Vegas. On May 20, 2025, Jack Eichel addressed media members in locker room clean-out interviews and stated, "This is a great place to play. I love the fans, the city, and my teammates. We'll see what happens when July comes."


The management of the team will now look to re-sign their best players, beginning with Jack Eichel. With numerous key contracts set to run out next season, the front office will remain active this summer.


Vegas supporters are praying that Jack Eichel sticks with gold and black for many years to come. For the time being, the July 1 countdown has begun, and negotiations in the background will soon be initiated.



Also Read: Golden Knights Eliminated, Five Factors Behind Their Early Exit