Jack Eichel will open training camp without a new contract, but the Vegas Golden Knights and their franchise center appear headed toward an eventual deal.
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic reported that talks between the two sides remain in the “early stages,” though there is no sense of urgency or alarm.
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“I have such a hard time believing the Vegas Golden Knights and Jack Eichel isn’t a marriage that will continue past this season,” LeBrun wrote. “It’s been a wonderful trade for everyone involved. A perfect fit all around.”
Added LeBrun: “My understanding is that negotiations are still in early stages, but no one is worried about it not getting done.”
Eichel, 28, is entering the final year of his eight-year, $80 million contract and has been eligible to sign an extension since July 1.
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The Golden Knights forward is coming off a season where he scored 28 goals and added 66 assists across 77 regular-season games. He added 10 points in 11 postseason outings for Vegas.
Speaking at the NHL/NHLPA Player Media Tour, Eichel said that he is comfortable beginning the year without an extension in place.
“You can only control so much, right? And that’s sort of been my mindset,” Eichel said, per LeBrun. “I focus on preparing for the season, getting my mind and body in the best place to be successful and help our hockey team. That’s more so my focus.”
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Vegas Golden Knights center Jack Eichel (9) looks on during warmups.James Guillory-Imagn Images
Golden Knights general manager Kelly McCrimmon told LeBrun during September’s GM meetings that securing Eichel remains a top priority for the franchise.
“That’s a priority,” McCrimmon said. “He’s been a great player for our organization. I think our organization has been great for him. So, lots of interest, obviously, I think from both sides to make something work.”
The Golden Knights traded for Eichel in November 2021, and in his four seasons with Vegas, the forward has notched 253 points in 241 regular-season appearances, as well as 43 points in 40 playoff games.
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Eichel was part of the Golden Knights team that hoisted the Stanley Cup in the 2022-23 season.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Sep 17, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.