This year's free agent class wasn't star-studded and after Mitch Marner there weren't many players who could be clearly viewed as difference-makers for a franchise. However, that is not the case for the 2026 free agency class, and the LA Kings have more than enough cap space to try to sign some of these players.
As it stands right now, the Kings have over $37 million in cap space for next summer, but re-signing Adrian Kempe and Alex Laferriere will cut into that total. Even with those moves, the Kings can still have enough to offer a big contract to one of the top free agents.
While these seven players are set to be free agents next summer, not all will reach free agency as teams are probably negotiating extensions as early as this month. If any of these six do reach free agency, the Los Angeles Kings should be very happy and preparing to offer a significant contract.
Connor McDavid
There is no question that all eyes are on Connor McDavid and what happens with the Oilers this season. After another Stanley Cup Final loss for the second straight season, McDavid left the door open about his potential departure out of Edmonton.
If McDavid were to leave Edmonton, some insiders are already connecting him to Los Angeles. McDavid is arguably the best player in hockey right now and could be that final piece to really push the Kings over the top and into the Stanley Cup.