Leaving Las Vegas: Marchessault balances disappointment with excitement of his new team in Nashville

By JOHN WAWROW The Associated Press

FILE - Vegas Golden Knights right wing Jonathan Marchessault (81) plays against the Anaheim Ducks during the third period of an NHL hockey game in Anaheim, Calif., Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023. The Nashville Predators made a big splash as NHL free agency opened Monday, July 1, 2024, by signing Stanley Cup champions Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault in a jaw-dropping series of moves topping $100 million that made Smashville the center of attention across hockey.(AP Photo/Alex Gallardo)[ASSOCIATED PRESS/Alex Gallardo]

Jonathan Marchessault expressed excitement in joining Steven Stamkos and the free agency retooled Nashville Predators, while reserving a level of disappointment of leaving behind his seven productive seasons with the Vegas Golden Knights. Though he bears no grudges, the 33-year-old Marchessault questioned why Golden Knights management didn’t believe in keeping him for the remainder of his career. His career begins anew in Nashville, where he signed a five-year, $27.5 million contract on Monday. Marchessault was part of the haul the Predators landed on the first day of free agency, joining Stamkos, defenseman Brady Skjei and goalie Scott Wedgewood.