Kings rumors: LA discussing new contract with former 1st-round pick appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Los Angeles Kings have a lot to think about in the offseason, as free agency will be busy this summer. Now, there are reports that the team is discussing a contract extension with a former 1st-round pick they acquired this season, according to NHL beat writer Dennis Bernstein.
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“Kings and pending UFA Scott Laughton talking this week on a contract extension. Of note, Laughton was solid in DJ Smith’s system after landing in LA at the trade deadline, Kings decision on coach may be impactful,” Bernstein wrote on X.
The Kings traded for Laughton before the NHL trade deadline to give themselves some center depth. Ultimately, the goal was to produce grit for a playoff run. Laughton produced mixed results, netting five goals and three assists in 21 games with the Kings. But he did not score in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Originally drafted 20th overall by the Philadelphia Flyers in 2012, Laughton spent over a decade with them until the Toronto Maple Leafs traded for him in the 2024-25 season. He spent a year with them before they shipped him to Los Angeles. Laughton has generally been a third or fourth-line player for the majority of his career. Overall, teams depend on him for grit more than scoring.
That leaves the Kings in a dilemma about whether they choose to re-sign him. With Anze Kopitar retiring, the Kings will look to reshuffle their lineup and add a scoring punch. Laughton will be a consideration for the team, and they will consider all options as they attempt to build a roster that can sustain a deep playoff run after yet another early playoff exit.