6 players the LA Kings should be hoping reach free agency in 2026

The Los Angeles Kings would be happy at the chance to sign some of these players next summer.
Jun 14, 2025; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) skates during the warmup period against the Florida Panthers in game five of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
Jun 14, 2025; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) skates during the warmup period against the Florida Panthers in game five of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images | Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
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Alex Tuch

Alex Tuch was a popular name around the trade deadline last season as it was hard to understand where the Buffalo Sabres were going. They ultimately wouldn't trade him and he is now entering the final year of his contract however there are reports that the two sides could be discussing an extension.

If the two sides don't agree to a new deal and the Sabres struggle next season, Tuch once again will be a popular trade target around the deadline. It would make sense for the Kings to be one of the teams interested to not only help them this season but get a jump on discussing a new long-term contract.

In two of the past three seasons, Tuch has finished with over 35 goals and has been productive on a struggling Sabres team. By adding more talent around him, it is hard to imagine he doesn't keep that production, if not improve on it.