Time is running out for the Los Angeles Kings to be the only team that can negotiate a new contract with Vladislav Gavrikov. The start of free agency will be tomorrow, and at that point, the Kings' top free agent could sign with any other team.
Based on recent comments by general manager Ken Holland, the Kings have made it clear they want to keep Gavrikov and have continued to make offers. Last week, he mentioned that it wasn't so much the term but the contract value that had been the sticking point.
While unlikely, the Kings might have just gotten a favor from Aaron Ekblad and the Florida Panthers, as it was announced he was signing an eight-year deal with an AAV of only $6.125 million, according to Pierre LeBrun. This is definitely a huge discount from what he was expected to get in free agency, but maybe the Kings can use this agreed-upon deal to reach an agreement.
Florida Panthers have one major advantage (actually two) over the Los Angeles Kings
One of the reasons that Ekblad probably was willing to re-sign with the Florida Panthers is because of their recent success. The Panthers have proven out they know how to win with back-to-back Stanley Cups now.
Unfortunately for the Kings, they don't have that luxury and are still trying to figure out the winning formula after first-round exits in four straight playoff appearances.
Another challenge the Los Angeles Kings are now going to be facing is that this is another top defenseman that is no longer available. That means for teams that need help, specifically on the left side, they are probably going to be willing to offer Gavrikov an even bigger contract.
There is no question that fans would love to Vladislav Gavrikov back and even more so would love for him to return on a contract similar to Ekblad. However with every passing moment, and reports of players re-signing, the chances that happens only decrease.