From the moment the Vegas Golden Knights put winger Mark Stone on long-term injured reserve Monday, it seemed pretty obvious that they were going to make a big splash before Friday's NHL trade deadline.
Maybe even two of them.
They had a major need for another goal-scorer (or two), they had the salary-cap flexibility and they still have the aggressive mindset that makes them a contender for every big-name player who becomes available. It has made them a Stanley Cup contender from day one of the franchise's existence and produced a championship a year ago.
On Tuesday evening they made their latest big addition, acquiring forward Anthony Mantha from the Washington Capitals for a 2024 second-round pick and a 2026 fourth-rounder.