The Vegas Golden Knights nearly secured their second Stanley Cup championship last season, pushing deep into the playoffs before falling short. With expectations high, questions loom over whether the team will build on that momentum or face a significant decline. Analysts and fans alike are scrutinizing roster changes and strategic adjustments as the franchise prepares for another campaign. The stakes could hardly be higher for a team that has defied expectations before.

The Vegas Golden Knights came within two wins of their second Stanley Cup win in franchise history last season. But what will they do for an encore this coming year? And could we see the Golden Knights take a major step backward next season?