The Los Angeles Kings might need to make some bold moves this offseason to get out of the first round of the NHL Playoffs. For general manager Ken Holland, that could include trading some players who have been key parts of the franchise.
At this point, Holland is probably trying to get up to speed and having conversations with different people throughout the organization. He is trying to get an understanding of what the roster might look like and how he can improve it this offseason without creating more holes.
The Kings could also explore trades as a way to create some additional cap space to go after some of the top free agents in July 1st while also adding some additional draft capital. With that in mind, these are four players that Holland could trade this offseason as a way to bring in players that might fit the roster better and give them more balance.
Phillip Danault
Phillip Danault has spent the past four seasons with the Los Angeles Kings and has been one of the better two-way forwards the team has had over that time. However, he is coming off a season low in goals (8) and points (43) while with the Kings and will be 32 years old entering this upcoming season.
Danault still has two seasons left on his contract with an average salary of $5.5 million but doesn't have any type of no-trade clause, which will help in any trade discussions the Kings have. By trading Danault, there would certainly be a loss in leadership in the locker room, who has been an alternative captain the past two seasons.
However, if it is a piece of the puzzle to bring in a more offensive forward it is a move the Kings would need to consider.