Based on a conversation with Dean Lombardi — full quotes to follow soon — here’s some of the rundown of what happened with the Kings in the last couple days and what could happen in the next few days…
— Without naming names — because, technically, it could be considered tampering if Lombardi says the name Gilbert Brule — the Kings’ initial trade with Edmonton did not go through because the NHL would not have allowed the player (Brule) to be bought out because of health concerns. That was the last-minute snag that ended up killing the trade.
— The Kings intend to keep Colin Fraser and let him compete for a job.
— The Kings are continuing to have contract talks with Drew Doughty’s agent, which Lombardi said progressed in recent days to the point that the sides traded actual contract figures. Lombardi said talks will be continuing.
— Lombardi said the Kings would pursue a player with a “mid-range” salary-cap hit to replace Ryan Smyth.
More on all this to come…
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