With the trade deadline on the horizon, rumors have been swirling. The Los Angeles Kings have been a popular name as they have been one of the best teams in the Western Conference. After roughly four years of rebuilding, the Kings appear to be playoff-bound and are looking to improve their core. They could be a busy team heading into Monday as they look to fortify their roster for the postseason.
Make sure to check out all of our other NHL Trade Deadline Previews.
Current Status
Current Record: 34-21-8
Division Standing: Second in the Pacific
Buyers/Sellers: Buyers
Phil Kessel
So far this season, the Kings have relied on an offense-by-committee approach. While that has worked, they have struggled on the power play. With points at a premium, they need a veteran presence and could have a match in Kessel. In 60 games this season, the former first-round pick has six goals and 31 assists. Kessel has also been productive on the man advantage, where he has nine points. He would bring playoff experience and see his offense improve alongside a talented forward group.
Conor Garland
As the Kings make their playoff push, one player they have been connected to is Garland. The Massachusetts native has 32 points this season, including 18 assists. He would be under control for the next four years and is only 26 years old. Since his rookie campaign, Garland has never scored less than 12 goals in a season. He also showed a flair for the dramatics with 11 game-winning goals. While Garland would cost picks and prospects, he could help the Kings for years to come.
Conor Garland just drove to the net on his backhand, flipped the puck over Karlsson's stick and Melnichuck's pad, and scored. My God what a goal #Yotes pic.twitter.com/MvdhfGhEb7
— Spoked Z (@SpokedZ) May 9, 2021
Jakob Chychrun
While the Kings have an elite veteran piece in Drew Doughty, their blueline could still use an upgrade. In the playoffs, teams are more physical as the intensity is dialed up. As a result, they have been tied to Chychrun. The 23-year-old has been popular in the rumor but would not come cheap. In 47 games this season, Chychrun has 21 points to his name. His addition would give the Kings another top-pairing defenseman to go alongside Drew Doughty. In addition, the Kings have picks to spare in order to acquire Chychrun.
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