LA Kings: Three defenders on Carolina Hurricanes to target in trades

The Carolina Hurricanes could have trouble protecting all their defensemen. Should the LA Kings try to acquire one at the trade deadline?

The upcoming expansion draft for the Seattle Kraken is a problem for all teams not named the Vegas Golden Knights. The Knights are exempt from leaving players exposed, but the LA Kings could lose a valuable player. And that goes for all teams, as noted.

But one team that could have the biggest dilemma protecting a crowded defensive unit is the Carolina Hurricanes.

"Most years, having one of the deepest blue lines in the NHL has no downside. In an Expansion Draft year, however, it’s problematic. Even with star defenseman Dougie Hamilton slated for free agency and not requiring expansion protection (unless he’s re-signed early), the Hurricanes still face a conundrum. Jaccob Slavin, Brett Pesce, Brady Skjei, Jake Gardiner, Haydn Fleury, and RFA Jake Bean are all eligible to be selected by the Seattle Kraken and, due to a number of valuable forwards as well, Carolina can only protect three. – ProHockeyRumors"

The LA Kings are reportedly in the market for a dynamic, left-shot defenseman. There could be some incentive for Carolina to package one of their players to upgrade other areas of their roster. According to ProHockeyRumors, the Hurricanes are in the market for a starting goaltender, a top-nine forward, and defensive depth, with Gardiner limited by injuries this year.

If there’s one area where the LA Kings can help out the Hurricanes, who are nearly guaranteed to make the playoffs, it’s a top-nine forward. Let’s look at three defenders to target in trades.