One of the biggest questions facing the Los Angeles Kings early this offseason is how the organization plans to replace Anze Kopitar at the center position.
Kopitar’s retirement immediately created a massive long-term need down the middle for Los Angeles and general manager Ken Holland.
With the free-agent market at center looking relatively weak, Los Angeles may ultimately need to explore the trade market if the organization wants to add a legitimate top-line player down the middle. After five consecutive first-round playoff exits and Kopitar’s retirement, the pressure is growing on general manager Ken Holland to keep the Kings competitive in the Western Conference.
Ken Holland may need to get aggressive on the trade block to solve the Los Angeles Kings' center problem
The Kings do not necessarily need another Kopitar. But they do need enough center depth and offensive upside at the position to avoid falling into the middle tier of the Western Conference.
That reality could force Los Angeles to aggressively pursue a blockbuster trade this summer.
The Kings may ultimately decide that Quinton Byfield is ready to become the organization’s next top-line center. But if Los Angeles truly wants to remain a serious contender in the Western Conference following Kopitar’s retirement, the front office may need to seriously explore the blockbuster trade market this offseason.
Here are three offseason big-splash trade targets at the center position that the Kings and Holland in the front office could kick the tires on pursuing on the block this summer.
Vincent Trocheck (New York Rangers)
New York Rangers veteran center Vincent Trocheck was frequently mentioned as a possible Kings trade target around the deadline this past regular season.
Trocheck would not fully replace Kopitar's long-term value or leadership, nor is he the franchise centerpiece many fans envision following Kopitar's retirement. However, his two-way game, faceoff ability, and playoff experience would make him one of the more realistic veteran options available if Los Angeles decides to pursue a major trade this summer.
Because the Rangers held onto Trocheck at the trade deadline, any potential asking price this summer would likely remain substantial. Trocheck’s contract would also remain relatively manageable for Los Angeles as the NHL salary cap continues rising.
Trocheck is due around $5.6 million in average annual value through the end of the 2028-29 season. If the Rangers continue reshaping their roster after missing the postseason, they could listen to offers for veteran players like Trocheck.
Trocheck's versatility would also give the Kings flexibility throughout the lineup. Whether deployed in a shutdown role or alongside offensive playmakers, he has shown throughout his career that he can contribute in multiple situations while bringing a physical edge and postseason experience.
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