There are just so many players who remain impactful well into their ‘30’s. We’ll see if Saad can be one. I am pulling for him. I am also pulling for Howden who had a breakout season: 40 pts including 23G in 80 games (+17). He never ever got close to that however those numbers were routine (stronger in fact) for Saad right up to his last season with the Blues. We’ll see what Cassidy does.
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Brandon Saad has already shown he can rebuild his game and is succeeding in a new role with the Vegas Golden Knights. After his performance declined with the St. Louis Blues, he successfully revitalized his career following a mid-season move to Vegas in 2024–2025.
The decline in St. Louis:
Saad’s effectiveness as a top-six forward began to diminish during his final seasons with the Blues. In the 2024–2025 season, his production was particularly poor, with only 16 points and 7 goals in 43 games. The situation culminated in the mutual termination of his contract in January 2025.
The rebound in Las Vegas:
After signing a one-year, $1.5 million contract with the Golden Knights, Saad immediately found a new spark.
He quickly found chemistry with his new teammates, putting up 14 points in 29 regular-season games. I am also pulling for Howden who had a breakout season: 40 pts including 23G in 80 games (+17). He never ever got close to that however those numbers were routine (they were stronger) for Saad right up to his last season with the Blues. We’ll see
His offensive production was much more efficient with Vegas; he nearly matched his offensive totals with the Blues despite playing 14 fewer games.
His reliable two-way play is highly valued by the Golden Knights, and his strong work ethic was a key factor in the team’s decision to re-sign him.
Continuing success in 2025–2026:
In the current 2025–2026 season, Saad’s new, more defined role with the Golden Knights is solidifying.
He recently moved up to the top line to replace an injured Mark Stone.
Playing alongside star Jack Eichel, Saad immediately made an impact, picking up an assist in his first game on the new line.
His performance has already exceeded early-season expectations for a bottom-six player.
Outlook:
At age 33, Saad is unlikely to return to the 30-goal, All-Star form of his early career. However, he has successfully transitioned from a go-to scorer to a reliable, hardworking veteran winger who provides solid depth and leadership. By adapting his game to a more supportive role, he has already proven he can effectively rebuild his career and be a valuable contributor to a contending team.