The Los Angeles Kings are working the phones looking to move underperforming center Phillip Danault. The two-way center is having a dismal season, and it’s become obvious everyone involved feel a change of scenery is best for both sides.

Sources: Trade chatter is picking up around #LAKings center Phil Danault. Multiple teams have inquired with LA on his availability, Danault has emerged as a target amid thin center market.

— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) December 6, 2025

The Vancouver Canucks, New Jersey Devils and Montreal Canadiens are three teams looking for help down the middle of the ice, but the Canucks and Devils are discussing a Quinn Hughes trade, meanwhile Danault could be a potential fit for returning to Montreal.

The 32-year-old center is signed through next season at $5.5 million AAV, and does own a 10-team no-trade list. Danault has appeared in 28 games this season, is averaging 16:26 of ice-time per game, but unfortunately has yet to score, and has just eight assists. 

The Kings enter Sunday’s action with a 13-8-7 record, and sit third in the Pacific Division. They have $4.1 million in cap space, and could potentially get creative with this move, however, one thing to consider is that Anze Kopitar is retiring at season’s end, so the Kings will need to think about center depth heading into next year.

Keep an eye on the Kings, they have been active in trade talks, and right now, all the attention is being spent on finding Danault a new team.

Photo credit: David Gonzales-Imagn ImagesÂ