Jordan Spence
The impending return of Drew Doughty means the Los Angeles Kings are going to have to find a spot in their Top 6, which is easier said than done with how well this group has played this season. When losing a player of Doughty's caliber right before the season is almost impossible to replace but the Kings have been able to do it with the group they have.
For the Kings, they certainly could continue with their 11/7 split and move Sean Burroughs to the Ontario Reign and then Jacob Moverare to that seventh spot. However, when considering how well this defense has played it might make sense trading a defenseman for big goal-scorer that can help this offense.
If that is the direction they take, there are two players that I believe could be considered options in trade discussions. Who they trade could be determined by the team they are having discussions with and if it is a team rebuilding, then Jordan Spence would probably be more appealing.
Spence is in his second season as a full-time starter for the Kings and has taken a bigger role without Doughty as he is playing almost three more minutes per game and is outpacing almost every stat from a season ago.
As the season has gone along, Spence has gotten better and pairing him with Moverare has been a perfect move. After the New Jersey Devils game, Jim Hiller even acknowledged his play as of late.
Jim Hiller on Jordan Spence’s game lately:
— Russell Morgan (@NHLRussell) January 2, 2025
“He started the season really poorly. Let’s be honest. He knows that too. He took some time to find his game. Playing with Moverare really helped him. Just got back to being solid. I think he’s elevated now. Not only did he get his form…
The Kings may not be ready to give up on Spence but there is no denying that he probably brings back one of the biggest returns. If that is the case, it is a player they may consider.