Who should the Vegas Golden Knights target before the trade deadline?

The Vegas Golden Knights may become major players as the March 3rd NHL Trade Deadline approaches. The team currently sits atop a tight Pacific Division with a 35-18-5 record, placing them three points ahead of the Edmonton Oilers.

The team has already made a potentially major move, sending Shea Weber's contract to the Arizona Coyotes. The deal helped the Golden Knights relieve themselves of any potential salary cap issues, as the veteran makes $7,857,143 against the NHL salary cap. However, he is due only $3 million in actual salary over the next three seasons.

"The Vegas Golden Knights and Arizona Coyotes completed a trade yesterday that involved the contract of Shea Weber. Hart Levine explains why this trade is a win-win. @EJHradek_NHL | #VegasBorn | #Yotes | #NHLNow" - NHL Network

In return, Vegas landed defenseman Dysin Mayo, who was assigned to the Golden Knights' minor league affiliate in Henderson. While the deal may not provide much in terms of NHL impact, it could be a key piece for the Vegas Golden Knights moving forward.

Given the salary cap relief from the Shea Weber deal, and the potentially season-ending injury to forward Mark Stone, Vegas will likely make a trade before the deadline. Here is a look at three players the Golden Knights may target.

Ivan Barbashev may be an ideal trade target for the Vegas Golden Knights

Barbashev may be the best trade target for the team. The Russian will not only come at an affordable price, but his versatility will help Vegas all over the ice as well. The Blues forward can play at the center and wing spots. Despite his scoring output being down this season, Barbashev tallied career-highs of 26 goals and 34 assists last season, which should make him an intriguing buy-low candidate.

"Friedman suggested on 32 Thoughts that some folks believe that Vegas may be interested in Barbashev and Noel Acciari at the deadline, but clarified that whatever they do will be guided by Stone's injury outlook. #VegasBorn" - Jack Manning

If Vegas is to pursue the Russian forward, they may have tough competition, as teams like the New Jersey Devils and Buffalo Sabres have reportedly been interested.

Could Patrick Kane be a fit for the Vegas Golden Knights?

If the Golden Knights elect to enter the trade market for a high-end rental, Patrick Kane may fit the bill. Previously, it was reported that Kane was only willing to waive his no-trade clause to help facilitate a move to the New York Rangers or the Toronto Maple Leafs.

However, in light of the recent moves that have taken place around the league, Kane may need to expand his desired trade list if he wants to be moved before the trade deadline. Vegas could be an intriguing team for Kane, as it will vault him back into title contention, something that is no longer possible with the Chicago Blackhawks.

Timo Meier destined for Sin City?

As one of the most high-profile forwards remaining on the open market, it is only a matter of time before the San Jose Sharks move Timo Meier. As the team enters a rebuilding stage, Meier and other veterans may find themselves on the way out of town.

"Friedman on 32TP talking more possible destinations for Timo Meier: "I do wonder about Vegas, it makes a lot of sense for them, I wonder if there is sort of like a "Vegas tax", now I know Nevada is a no-tax state..." - NHL Watcher

Enter the Vegas Golden Knights. If the team decides to pay up for his services, they may also look to extend him to a long-term contract. The talented forward could quickly become one of the top players for the franchise and someone they can build around.