The Los Angeles Kings built out their depth in free agency and while it didn't generate much excitement, it hopefully helps them in the playoffs. However, general manager Ken Holland is still looking for that marquee move that can be a defining moment in the early parts of his time with the Kings.
There is one move that still seems to be lingering out there that could do that and it has a great underlying storyline of bringing a player back to the area he grew up in. The Dallas Stars found themselves up against the salary cap this summer and were able to get just under with trades of Mason Marchment and Matt Dumba.
Last month, the Stars seemed determined to end any rumors that they were going to trade Jason Robertson. However, the rumors have persisted that Jason Robertson might be available and if that is the case, the Kings have to get a deal done.
Jason Robertson is the type of player to transform the LA Kings offense
The Kings this offseason added depth with the addition of Corey Perry and Joel Armia but they need a top tier forward to help Adrian Kempe with the scoring. Kevin Fiala was excellent down the stretch but he also disappears for long stretches as well.
Meanwhile, Anze Kopitar could be entering his final season and Quinton Byfield hopefully continues to improve but that isn't a guarantee. There are enough questions past this season for the Kings to justify making a blockbuster trade for Robertson.
As for Robertson, he has proven he can be highly productive with three straight seasons of 80 or more points. If he was on the Kings for those seasons, he would have led the team in points every season.
This is a player who is still getting better and young in his career but a trade for Robertson would come with it's own challenges. He is entering the final season of his contract and will be a restricted free agent next summer. The Kings may be hesistant to make a trade with players like Kempe and Alex Laferriere needing contracts over that time frame as well.
For the Kings, they should have the cap space next season to get both contracts done and if they can, it gives them a great core of Byfield, Kempe and Robertson to build around for the foreseeable future.
In the end, it feels like an unlikely move but if the Kings can pull it off, it puts them right back in the discussion for the top of the Pacific Division.