4 older free agents the Los Angeles Kings could target in free agency

The Kings may consider some of these older veterans to help them try to win the Stanley Cup next season.
May 16, 2025; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs center John Tavares (91) looks on against the Florida Panthers during the first period in game six of the second round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
May 16, 2025; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs center John Tavares (91) looks on against the Florida Panthers during the first period in game six of the second round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
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John Tavares

The Toronto Maple Leafs ended the season in disappointing fashion and now have a lot of work to do this offseason. It seems all indications are that Mitch Marner is not going to be part of their plans moving forward. However, they still have to re-sign restricted free agent Matthew Knies and unrestricted free agents Max Pacioretty and John Tavares.

According to reports by Andy Strickland, the departure of Marner might have shifted Toronto's plans and they could be looking to make re-signing Tavares a priority. It makes perfect sense for Toronto as Tavares continues to produce even though he was 34 years old this season.

This past season, Tavares had 38 goals, second on the team in the category, and 36 assists in 75 regular season games. If, for some reason, negotiations fall apart between the Maple Leafs and Tavares, the Los Angeles Kings should really consider pursuing the center. Unlike Marchand, Tavares is still playing at a high level and could still produce throughout the length of the contract.