Ek’s Note: Kings Swinging Big? Massive Package Tied to Robert Thomas Rumors…

There’s a big one floating around this evening… and if it has any traction at all, it tells you just how aggressive the LA Kings may be getting.

It is no secret that the LA Kings have serious interest in Robert Thomas…DOUG Armstrong of course is sitting over in Italy as he is the GM of team Canada…but according to my sources, one in LA and one in St. Louis here is the proposed framework

This is the first offer I’ve seen in the rumor mill about Robert Thomas that makes a little bit of sense…Armstrong has promised the fan base that he will get back a significant Hall if he were to move Robert Thomas.. is this enough? I’m not sure it might be too much involving the future and not enough right now.

The Kings have been searching for another true top-line center to push their window forward. Thomas fits that mold perfectly. He’s a high-IQ playmaker, still young (26), locked into his prime years, and capable of driving offense. Adding him would give LA a legit 1–2 punch down the middle and change the dynamic of their attack overnight.

There’s always been urgency for this season for the Kings because of Kopitar doing his swan song…therefore the Panerin trade… And there may be urgency building in LA right now…. Kevin Fiala suffered a significant injury during Olympic play, and if he’s out long-term, that creates a major hole in their offense. Losing a top scoring winger like Fiala could push the Kings into aggressive mode fast, especially if they feel their window is right now and they need another elite offensive scorer..

Why St. Louis Would Even Listen…

Thomas isn’t a player you shop. He’s the kind you build around.  But if the Blues are at all uncertain about their timeline…. and if they believe they need to stockpile young assets….this is the type of offer that forces you to at least have the conversation.

Cihar is viewed as a strong long-term piece with skill and upside. He was absolutely fantastic in the last world junior tournament..  Carter George gives them a potential future in net.  George is only 19, but absolutely beloved in Canada.   Feels like he’s a lot older to me…. Add a first-rounder and another pick, and suddenly you’re talking about a package that could help reshape the organization’s next phase.

That’s not a small haul.

Still… moving Robert Thomas would be a massive decision. He’s a core player. The kind of center teams spend years trying to find.  If he truly goes up for sale, they’re gonna be so many teams…. This deal won’t happen unless St. Louis is convinced the return helps them more long-term than keeping him does.  And this isn’t Doug Armstrong’s first rodeo…

For now, this sits firmly in rumor territory… but the Fiala injury adds a layer of urgency. If LA believes they suddenly need more high-end offense to stay in the hunt, this is exactly the kind of swing that is worth a big swing…