Kings Sign Johan Fransson

Is it big news? No. But it’s worth a quick note that the Kings have come to an agreement with defenseman Johan Fransson. Fransson became Kings property when he was traded from Dallas to Los Angeles all the way back in 2007 (that was the Norstrom deal). He’s been plying his trade in the Swedish Elite League with Luleå HF.

Fransson is 25 years old and netted 11 goals and 19 assists this past season to go along with 26 PIMs in 54 games during the 2009-2010 season. Clearly the Kings management sees him as having some potential, though in all likelihood he’ll be in Manchester to at least begin the season next year. With the Kings needing a 6th defenseman on the roster, it’s certainly possible that he’ll make the jump, but for the moment I’d say unlikely.

In case you’re curious, Fransson is 6′ 1″ and comes in at 183 pounds. According to Rich Hammond, Fransson was also drawing some interest from other NHL teams as well as (obviously) the KHL. The fact that he chose to sign with us may be an indication that he was led to believe that he will get to compete for the spot on the NHL roster. Only time will tell.

Good call? Think Fransson will be in the NHL this season?