The Los Angeles Kings made a blockbuster trade on Tuesday, acquiring center Pierre-Luc Dubois from the Winnipeg Jets in their second trade within the past week.
The Kings sent defenseman Sean Durzi to the Arizona Coyotes for a 2nd round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft on Monday.
In the Dubois deal, the Kings sent forwards Alex Iafallo, Gabe Vilardi, and Rasmus Kupari, along with a 2nd round pick in the 2024 NHL draft to Winnipeg.
This one has mixed reviews. As part of the trade, Dubois signed an extension to the tune of an eight-year deal with an AAV of $8.5 million. Some fans hate the deal because they feel Los Angeles gave up too much, and some fans hate the contract. However, some fans love the deal as it gives Los Angeles even more strength down the middle.
Dubois is a proven NHL player that can produce offensively. Kupari had not proven himself in the Kings’ organization when called up. Vilardi was often injured but hit his stride last season before coming back down to earth in the second half. Iafallo will be missed but not because of his offense but his defensive game while shorthanded.
This one stings for some fans, but if the Kings are going to make a serious push toward another Stanley Cup, then these moves have to be made.
The Kings are also looking for a starting goaltender for next season. Goaltender Pheonix Copley had a tremendous season for Los Angeles, leading them to the playoffs. Los Angeles has been linked to goaltender Connor Hellebyuck, but the price may be too steep. Here is what a trade might look like with the Nashville Predators.
To Los Angeles: Goaltender Jusse Saros
To Nashville: Goaltender Pheonix Copley, Left-winger Carl Grundstrom, 2024 1st round pick.
Another trade that, if made, may have to include another piece or two. General manager Rob Blake is in the position to go for it this offseason, and this may be his biggest target for goaltending.
Saros gives Los Angeles a number-one goaltender capable of playing 60+ games.
Can the Kings fill the goaltending hole before the start of the season through trade or free agency?
Saros would be a nice fit between the pipes for the Kings as Saros, like Dubois, has established himself as a proven NHL player.
Photo: Paul Skrbina/The Tennessean
