The Los Angeles Kings commenced the 2023-24 NHL season in impressive fashion, amassing a record of 13-4-3 in the initial two months. Despite this early success, they encountered challenges midway through the season, ultimately securing the third-place spot in the Pacific Division. Their postseason journey resulted in another defeat against the Edmonton Oilers, extending a trend of playoff exits at the hands of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. With a limited $2.9 million cap space following Quinton Byfield’s contract extension, the Kings face constraints but are eyeing potential trade targets to bolster their roster.
During the offseason, the Kings have already navigated some changes, losing Viktor Arvidsson to free agency and trading Pierre-Luc Dubois to the Washington Capitals, receiving goaltender Darcy Kuemper in return. However, their defense took a hit with Matt Roy departing to join the Capitals in free agency. With these moves in mind, the Kings aim to address goaltending concerns with Kuemper’s acquisition but face challenges in maintaining defensive solidity.
Looking ahead, the Kings must strategize amidst limited cap flexibility, with a cautionary note against overpaying in free agency, as evidenced by Joel Edmundson’s potential signing not aligning with their needs or financial constraints. To fortify their roster, the Kings are exploring trade options that could enhance their competitiveness in the upcoming season.
One potential target is Kaapo Kakko from the New York Rangers. Kakko, once highly touted but now seeking a resurgence, presents an opportunity for the Kings to leverage their own prospect, Arthur Kaliyev, in a possible trade scenario. The Rangers, facing disappointment with Kakko’s development compared to other drafted players, may consider a fresh start for both Kakko and Kaliyev, making this trade appealing to both sides. Kakko, under contract for one more year at $2.40 million, fits within the Kings’ cap structure while offering potential offensive depth crucial for competing against teams like the Oilers.
Alternatively, Rutger McGroarty of the Winnipeg Jets represents a cost-effective option for the Kings. With three years remaining on his entry-level contract, McGroarty brings offensive potential and a desire for change from his current situation in Winnipeg. Although acquiring McGroarty may require substantial assets compared to Kakko, his long-term potential and fit within the Kings’ forward lineup make him a viable target to bolster team depth without straining the salary cap.
Another intriguing trade prospect is Marco Rossi from the Minnesota Wild. Despite a solid performance with 41 points in his first full NHL season, Rossi finds himself on the trade block along with Filip Gustavsson. The Kings could explore scenarios involving Kakko to secure Rossi, offering a potential solution to their forward needs while navigating the complexities of intra-conference trades.
The Kings’ approach to these trade targets reflects a strategic balance between addressing immediate roster needs and maintaining long-term financial sustainability. General Manager Rob Blake aims to restore fan confidence following a challenging offseason, emphasizing the need for impactful acquisitions that enhance the team’s competitiveness in the Pacific Division.
In conclusion, the Kings’ pursuit of trade targets in the 2024 NHL offseason underscores their commitment to improving roster depth and addressing positional gaps left by offseason departures. With a focus on prudent cap management and strategic player acquisitions, Los Angeles aims to build a formidable lineup capable of challenging perennial rivals and advancing deeper into the playoffs.
