In 2025, Danny Webster’s coverage of the Golden Knights, the Aces during the WNBA playoffs, and various happenings for the Review-Journal has made waves among sports enthusiasts. Here are his top five favorite stories from an unforgettable year in sports.
Marc-Andre Fleury’s Emotional Farewell
One of the most poignant moments of the year was when Marc-Andre Fleury played his final game in the NHL against his former team, the Vegas Golden Knights. Known affectionately as “The Original Misfit,” Fleury was a cornerstone in the franchise’s early years and a fan favorite. He announced his retirement after the Knights eliminated the Minnesota Wild in the playoffs. With an impressive career total of 575 wins, he ended as the second-winningest goaltender in NHL history, leaving behind a legacy that fans and players alike will always cherish.
A Thrilling Playoff Highlight
The Knights delivered some nail-biting moments during their playoff run, notably in Game 3 against the Edmonton Oilers. Reilly Smith, a key player for the Knights, executed a remarkable bank shot, finding the back of the net with only 0.4 seconds left on the clock. This thrilling 4-3 victory not only exemplified Smith’s skill but also injected new life into the fanbase, keeping hopes alive for another deep playoff run.
The Richest Contract in Franchise History
This year saw the Knights making an audacious move in the off-season when they secured Mitch Marner from the Toronto Maple Leafs. After eight long years of waiting, the Knights offered Marner an impressive eight-year contract worth $96 million, the most lucrative deal given to a free agent in the team’s history. This signing was met with excitement and speculation, as fans eagerly anticipated how Marner would contribute to the squad’s formidable lineup.
A Controversial Signing
In a story that spurred discussions both on and off the ice, the Knights also made a significant signing in October with goaltender Carter Hart. This acquisition came three months after Hart was acquitted of a sexual assault charge tied to the 2018 World Junior Championships. The coverage surrounding this story was extensive, delving into various perspectives and preparing the fans for the arrival of Hart, who faced scrutiny yet held the potential to be a game-changing player for the team.
Aces Warriors: A Championship Run
The Las Vegas Aces solidified their status as a powerhouse by claiming their third WNBA championship in four years. A significant factor in their success was guard Jewell Loyd, who was acquired in an off-season trade that saw franchise icon Kelsey Plum moving to Los Angeles. Loyd’s journey from Seattle to Las Vegas was punctuated by a tattoo across her neck, symbolizing her commitment to this new chapter in her career. Her reflections on this transition underscored both her personal growth and the spirit of the Aces as they fought for success.
For further insights and updates, you can reach Danny Webster at dwebster@reviewjournal.com or follow him on X at @DannyWebster21.