Just over a month ago, the Los Angeles Kings made a significant trade, sending Pierre-Luc Dubois to the Washington Capitals.
For months leading up to this trade, there was speculation among Kings fans about potential buyouts and trades that would end Dubois’ tenure with the team. Ultimately, that’s what happened.
So, let’s delve into how GM Rob Blake orchestrated Dubois’ move to Los Angeles and the subsequent steps taken to address the situation.
Kings & Jets’ Blockbuster Deal:
On June 27th, 2023, the Kings made headlines in the NHL by acquiring Dubois in a trade with the Winnipeg Jets. This deal was not only substantial but also unexpected, with many NHL fans predicting Dubois would end up with the Montreal Canadiens.
Kings Received: Pierre-Luc Dubois
Jets Received: Gabriel Vilardi, Alex Iafallo, Rasmus Kupari, and a second-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft
In exchange for three NHL forwards and a second-round draft pick, the Kings believed they were securing a valuable asset for their future, which is why they signed Dubois to an eight-year, $68M contract.
Related: Kings Trade Dubois to Capitals for Kuemper
Unfortunately, this prediction did not come to fruition, and Dubois’ integration into the team did not meet expectations. This led to Blake facing a challenge in finding a solution to the situation.
Kings and Capitals’ Hockey Trade:
Not even a year after acquiring Dubois from the Jets, Blake worked his magic and found the solution to the problem. On June 19, 2024, the Kings and Capitals announced a classic one-for-one trade, with no cap retention or conditional picks involved.
Kings Received: Darcy Kuemper
Capitals Received: Pierre-Luc Dubois
Not only did Blake move out the entire Dubois cap hit, but Blake also secured a starting goalie, Darcy Kuemper, who was seen as a cost-effective solution for the team’s financial needs. Kuemper had struggled to find his footing with the Capitals but his experience playing with the Kings’ organization was expected to help him regain his form. He is known for performing better in less competitive situations.
With the Capitals, there was also Charlie Lindgren, who eventually surpassed Kuemper for the starting position. However, during his tenure with the Colorado Avalanche, Lindgren’s backup was Pavel Francouz, who never truly challenged for the starting job.
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