"I’m disappointed" - Jonathan Marchessault finally addresses failed contract discussion with Golden Knights

Jonathan Marchessault has shared details about his final talks with the Vegas Golden Knights before leaving in July. On The Cam & Strick Podcast, he explained how he tried to secure a new deal after his agent, Pat Brisson, failed to reach an agreement.

Marchessault called Golden Knights manager Kelly McCrimmon and president George McPhee directly. He wanted to know if the team was letting him go. He had asked for a four-year contract, but the Golden Knights offered only three.

He eventually signed a five-year, $27.5-million contract with the Nashville Predators, joining them the same day as Steven Stamkos. Marchessault, a key player for the Golden Knights and their all-time leader in goals and points, had won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2023.

His departure fits a pattern with the Golden Knights, who have traded away popular players like Marc-Andre Fleury and Alex Tuch to stay competitive.

Marchessault is disappointed by the lack of loyalty but understands the team’s need to win.

"There’s definitely no loyalty but, at the same time, you’re there to win. I don’t mind that mindset, personally. Obviously, I’m disappointed that I left. I didn’t have any real things to consider and that’s what disappointed me. I thought I had done good enough in the past seven years for them that I could deserve what I deserved," he said.

"I was not asking for something outrageous, I was not trying to steal the bank or anything. But it’s life and you move on, and they’re still going to have a really good team … and only the future will tell us if they were right or wrong."

He accepts the situation and moves on, knowing the Golden Knights will remain strong. Only time will reveal if their choices were correct.

Barry Trotz welcomed Jonathan Marchessault

On Jul. 1, Jonathan Marchessault joined the Nashville Predators on a five-year, $27.5 million contract. Manager Barry Trotz pointed to Marchessault’s success, noting his Stanley Cup and Conn Smythe Trophy wins.

“A Stanley Cup champion and Conn Smythe winner, Jonathan Marchessault immediately makes our team better in all aspects of the game, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to the Predators organization...,” Barry Trotz said (via NHL.com on July 1)."

Marchessault had a standout 2022-23 season with the Vegas Golden Knights, scoring 42 goals and 69 points. His scoring skill and physical play are expected to strengthen the Predators. Starting his NHL career with Columbus, Marchessault later set franchise records for goals, assists and points with Vegas.