Story Summary
Braeden Bowman signed a six-year, $20.4 million contract with the Vegas Golden Knights. The deal carries an average annual value of $3.4 million and will begin with the 2027-28 season. Bowman, 23, is entering the final season of a two-year entry-level contract he signed March 2, 2025, and could have become a restricted free agent after this season. An undrafted free agent, he recorded 26 points (eight goals, 18 assists) and averaged 14:08 of ice time in 54 games as a rookie; he also had four power-play points (two power-play goals) and appeared in one Stanley Cup Playoff game for Vegas.
Key Facts
- Braeden Bowman signed a six-year, $20.4 million contract with the Vegas Golden Knights.
- The contract has an average annual value (AAV) of $3.4 million and will begin with the 2027-28 season.
- Bowman is 23 years old and is entering the final season of a two-year entry-level contract signed on March 2, 2025.
- He could have become a restricted free agent after the upcoming season.
- Bowman was an undrafted free agent when he joined the Golden Knights.
- As a rookie, he had 26 points (eight goals, 18 assists) in 54 games and averaged 14:08 of ice time.
- He recorded four power-play points, including two power-play goals.
- Bowman appeared in one Stanley Cup Playoff game for the Golden Knights.
- The Golden Knights lost to the Carolina Hurricanes in six games in the Stanley Cup Final.
- Vegas opens its regular season against the Chicago Blackhawks on Sept. 29 (as stated).
IHM Discussion
The contract keeps Bowman with the Golden Knights beyond the season in which he could otherwise have reached restricted free agency. Its six-year term begins in 2027-28 and carries a $3.4 million average annual value. Bowman produced 26 points in 54 games as a rookie, added two power-play goals and appeared in one playoff game, giving Vegas a young forward with room to build on his first NHL season.
Why It Matters
For Vegas, the agreement settles Bowman’s contract status before the final season of his entry-level deal. For Bowman, it provides long-term security after a rookie year in which he recorded 26 points in 54 games. The deal is a commitment to his continued development, with his future production and usage set to shape how it is viewed over time.
Mini Q&A
When does Bowman’s new contract begin?
The six-year contract begins with the 2027-28 season.
What is the contract’s total value and AAV?
The deal is worth $20.4 million total with an average annual value of $3.4 million.
Could Bowman have become a restricted free agent?
Yes. Bowman is entering the final season of a two-year entry-level contract and could have become a restricted free agent after this season.
What were Bowman’s rookie stats?
He had 26 points (eight goals, 18 assists) in 54 games and averaged 14:08 of ice time; he also had four power-play points, including two power-play goals.
Did Bowman play in the playoffs?
He appeared in one Stanley Cup Playoff game for the Golden Knights.
When do the Golden Knights open their regular season?
The Golden Knights open their regular season against the Chicago Blackhawks on Sept. 29 (as stated).
Coach Mark Comment
Bowman’s rookie production and power-play contribution give him a useful foundation. The next step is to turn that early offensive impact into consistent shifts across the season as he continues to establish himself at NHL level.
What Comes Next
Vegas opens the regular season against the Chicago Blackhawks on Sept. 29 (as stated). The new contract will take effect with the 2027-28 season.