The Vegas Golden Knights can now officially wheel and deal with their NHL counterparts.
While 30 franchises were occupied by Wednesday's trade deadline, the NHL's 31st team submitted its final league payment, and as a result, can start making deals, according to TSN's Bob McKenzie.
"On behalf of the Board of Governors, I am delighted to officially welcome the Vegas Golden Knights to the NHL," Commissioner Gary Bettman said. "Congratulations to Bill Foley, the Foley family, the Maloof family, the city of Las Vegas and the Golden Knights’ fans as the team embarks on its exciting journey."
Of course, the Golden Knights can't trade for any roster players, given they'll have nowhere to play, but Vegas can begin to make pre-expansion trades for prospects, as well as sign college free agents.
The official expansion draft is set for June 21.
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