Jonathan Marchessault set a high bar for the Vegas Golden Knights last season with 42 goals. Who’s next to score more than 40 in a single season?

Jonathan Marchessault set the bar high for the Vegas Golden Knights scoring-wise last season. He scored 42 goals, leading the team in this statistical category. That was good enough to be tied for 11th in the NHL, thrusting himself among superstars such as Steven Stamkos. When you put yourself in hockey’s upper echelons, you know you’re doing something right.

Sadly, the “Golden Misfit” put on his cowboy boots and cowboy hat to get his honky tonk on. He’ll join forces with Stamkos in Nashville, creating a top line of death for the Predators. Now, the Golden Knights have a void on the first line, with Jack Eichel, Ivan Barbashev, and another guy. Who is this mysterious person that’ll join them? Will it be Victor Olofsson? Perhaps it’s Mark Stone? Maybe William Karlsson has an outside shot?

Whatever the case, it brings up the idea of the next person to achieve this remarkable stat. It’s become a rare feat in today’s hockey landscape, where the mindset has shifted to distributing scoring opportunities and balanced scoring. Still, some players can potentially hit the mark for the Golden Knights. Who are these mysterious players who can hit 40 goals or beyond?

The names of potential 40+ goal-scorers for the Vegas Golden Knights are endless, including Jack Eichel and William Karlsson

Believe it or not, there are plenty of candidates for scoring 40 or more goals next season. Jonathan Marchessault? He won’t be one of those, for he’s becoming a budding country star. However, the focus will shift to Jack Eichel, who can achieve the mark with a full 82-game season. He scored 31 goals last season despite playing 63 games, making him a prime candidate.

Perhaps you like a “Swede as sugar” player? Have no fear because the Vegas Golden Knights have some superstars that fit the bill. William Karlsson scored 43 goals in 2017-18, setting the franchise record. He can achieve that mark once again, cementing himself as an “Immortal Misfit.” There’s also Alexander Holtz, who was acquired from the New Jersey Devils for Paul Cotter. He scored 16 goals with the Devils in 2023-24, putting fans on notice.

Of course, there are outside candidates like Mark Stone and Pavel Dorofeyev. But the most realistic choice for scoring 40 or more goals is Eichel. He’s the most well-equipped player offensively to pull this off. He can fool defenders with dekes and fake-outs, making him a constant threat. There’s also his power play presence, where he shines bright. Overall, fans can bet on their franchise player to hit the mark next, making him a bona fide icon among the community.