The LA Kings didn't have that big, splash offseason move that fans hoped would happen with general manager Ken Holland. It was rumored that they could be a landing spot for players like Mitch Marner or Brock Boeser but nothing materialized.
While there are no more free agents that could have that impact, teams are still discussing trades and this is where the Kings or any other team is really going to improve their roster. This week, the trade market has picked up with players like Isaac Howard going to the Oilers and, recently, Matt Dumba being traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins.
The Stars are in a tough position right now with one of their top players in Jason Robertson, who is a restricted free agent. The two sides have reportedly been discussing a new contract, but nothing has been finalized yet.
It is tough for the Stars as they have limited cap space, and this is one of the reasons for the trade of Dumba. They are trying to shed some salary to create space to sign Robertson to a long-term deal.
It is worth a phone call from the LA Kings about a potential Jason Robertson trade
If the Stars feel like they can't get to a contract that Robertson wants, then they will be gauging what the trade market might look like for him. In that scenario, the LA Kings absolutely need to make a call to see if they can agree to a trade.
When Holland was introduced as general manager, it was clear that the Stanley Cup was the goal and Robertson is a player who would get them much closer to that. He is only 25 years old but already has 168 goals in 371 NHL games.
There is certainly the complication of having to agree to a new contract with Robertson, and that will be one hurdle the Kings need to clear before completing a trade. If they can do that, though, then this is the move that will have fans excited about the Kings' chances next season.