Lucas Van Vliet, a 19-year-old left winger, is among the returnees participating in the Vegas Golden Knights’s 2025 Development Camp.
Since being selected in the seventh round (197th overall) by the Knights in the 2024 NHL Draft, Van Vliet has made noticeable strides in his development. Progress he’s been showcasing on the ice at City National Arena.
“I chose to play another year in the USHL and go to Dubuque and kind of develop as a player,” Van Vliet said. “I think having another year of juniors is really good for me.”
Van Vliet, 19, is a 6-foot-2 left-winger from Livonia, Michigan, who is a product of the U.S. National Team Development Program. Known for his strong two-way play and heavy shot, he’s continued to build on his offensive instincts and physical presence.
In 2024, he stood out on the international stage as the second-highest scorer at the World Junior A Challenge (WJAC-19), tallying 10 points (3 goals, 7 assists). During the 2024–25 season with the Dubuque Fighting Saints in the USHL, Van Vliet played in 56 games and recorded a personal best of 49 points (22 goals, 27 assists).
Van Vliet will play his 2025-26 in the NCAA league for the University of St. Thomas.
"I think the decision there was, you know, seeing what they’re building there, and obviously, this is their first year being able to go to the NCAA tournament,” Van Vliet said. “Seeing that, I want to be a big part of the reason they make it there, and hopefully win a ring."