The Vegas Golden Knights have secured additional depth for their roster, announcing one-year contracts for three restricted free agents: Cole Schwindt, Jonas Rondbjerg, and Raphael Lavoie. These signings, confirmed on July 6, 2025, represent strategic moves to maintain organizational depth while managing tight salary cap constraints.
Each player signed for the league minimum of $775,000 at the NHL level, with varying AHL salaries structured into their two-way contracts. These cost-effective deals provide Vegas with flexible options as they navigate a challenging cap situation heading into the 2025-2026 season.
1. Contract specifics & announcement
Announcement date
The Vegas Golden Knights announced these signings on July 6, 2025, with the news being picked up by multiple NHL outlets and team beat writers. The timing comes during the standard off-season period for addressing restricted free agent contracts.
AAV and contract structure
All three players signed identical NHL salary figures at the league minimum $775,000, but with different AHL components:
- Raphael Lavoie: Two-way contract paying $235,000 at the AHL level with a $300,000 guarantee
- Jonas Rondbjerg: Two-way contract with $250,000 AHL salary
- Cole Schwindt: Two-way contract with $250,000 AHL salary
2. Player performance & context (2024-2025 season)
Among the three players, Schwindt saw the most NHL action during the 2024-2025 season, appearing in 42 games with the Golden Knights and recording 8 points (1 goal, 7 assists) with an even plus/minus rating.
Rondbjerg and Lavoie primarily developed in the AHL with the Henderson Silver Knights, each recording brief NHL stints without registering points. Lavoie showed promising offensive production in Henderson with 17 goals in 42 AHL games.
3. RFA status
All three players were restricted free agents prior to these signings. By extending qualifying offers before completing these one-year deals, Vegas maintained control of their rights while avoiding any possibility of offer sheets from competing teams.
The one-year term gives both the team and players a chance to further evaluate fit before committing to longer-term arrangements, a common approach with developing prospects who haven’t yet cemented their NHL roles.
4. Team roster & cap impact
Potential trade candidates
With Vegas currently projected approximately $6.8 million over the cap, additional moves will be necessary. Veterans carrying higher cap hits like Alec Martinez ($5.25 million) or Reilly Smith ($5 million) could become trade candidates, though age and injury concerns may impact their market value.
Demotion scenarios
Simply demoting lower-salaried players like Paul Cotter would provide minimal relief under the current CBA rules. The team will likely need a combination of moves to become cap compliant by opening night.
Cap compliance strategy
The Golden Knights need to shed approximately $6 million in salary to become cap compliant. This will likely require combining trades of higher-salaried players with strategic demotions and potential longer-term injured reserve placements if applicable.
5. Likely roles & team strategy
Schwindt appears most likely to secure an NHL roster spot, potentially in a fourth-line role. His performance last season (42 games) suggests the coaching staff values his defensive responsibility and physical presence.
Rondbjerg and Lavoie will likely begin the season in Henderson, providing organizational depth and serving as call-up options when injuries occur. Lavoie’s scoring touch at the AHL level makes him an intriguing option if Vegas needs offensive reinforcement during the season.
6. Comparable RFA signings & future outlook
These signings follow a familiar pattern seen with developing prospects across the NHL. Similar one-year RFA deals in recent years include Jujhar Khaira (Oilers, 2017), Kerby Rychel (Maple Leafs, 2016), and Brendan Leipsic (Maple Leafs, 2016).
The 2025-26 season represents a critical opportunity for all three players. Strong performances could lead to multi-year extensions, while struggling could result in the team moving on. At their current age and development trajectory, this may be their best opportunity to establish themselves as NHL regulars.
7. Initial reaction & analysis
These signings represent low-risk, potentially high-reward moves for the Golden Knights. All three players offer NHL-ready depth at league-minimum cap hits, crucial for a team operating near the salary cap ceiling.
Media reaction has been generally positive regarding the value, though questions remain about Vegas’ overall cap strategy. The organization continues its pattern of aggressive roster management, prioritizing competitive depth while navigating tight financial constraints.
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