Vegas Golden Knights forward Jack Eichel (9) during a stop in play against the Vegas Golden Knights in the third period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

Vegas Golden Knights forward Jack Eichel is under contract for the 2025-26 season but becomes eligible for a contract extension on July 1. The franchise plans to prioritize this business this offseason.

Eichel was dynamite all season, setting a career-high in points with 94 and adding 28 goals. In the playoffs, the 28-year-old struggled, recording just one goal and 10 points in 11 games, en route to the Golden Knights' elimination in six games to the Edmonton Oilers. Eichel sustained an upper-body injury late in the season, and although no information was shared regarding his status in the playoffs, it wouldn't be all too surprising if it was something that was hampering him in the postseason.

Eichel is under contract for the 2025-26 season, the final year on his eight-year, $10M AAV contract he signed with the Buffalo Sabres, prior to the blockbuster deal which brought him to Vegas. Despite the remaining year, the Golden Knights would love to handle their business before he becomes available for any team to sign.

Golden Knights' general manager understands Eichel's importance and wants to get a deal done as soon as possible.

"The guy is a tremendous player," McCrimmon said. "He's one of the top guys in the NHL. He's got great character and great leadership. You see night in and night out what he does for our team. So that will be a really important piece of business for us. I sure hope to keep Jack in our organization. Jack loves it here. I hope we can find common ground and keep him a Golden Knight."

Since his arrival in Vegas, the organization and the player have gelled, and it's a partnership that both sides hope to continue.

"I think with that stuff, it's sort of out of my control," said Eichel. "I just try to focus on the things that I can control. It's a phenomenal place to play hockey and live, and a great community to be a part of."

The direction of the Golden Knights' future rides on Eichel's extension. Replacing a No.1 center in their prime is a difficult task, and his departure would force the Golden Knights to make difficult decisions and moves.

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Golden Knights Prioritizing Jack Eichel Contract Extension