"A major developing story involves center Phillip Danault. Reports indicate the Kings may be exploring "change-of-scenery" trade options for him. While he remains defensively sound, his offensive production has dropped significantly this season (zero goals, five assists in 29 games), leading to mutual frustration. However, his contract and no-trade clause complicate any potential move. Despite a recent 6-0 breakout win against the Chicago Blackhawks, the Kings rank near the bottom of the league (27th) in goals per game."
"On a positive note, young defenseman Brandt Clarke is emerging as a bright spot. He recently scored two goals in the win against Chicago and is on pace for a 40-point campaign, effectively stepping into a top-four role and quarterbacking the power play. Despite the team's inconsistent play, Holland has firmly denied rumors that head coach Jim Hiller is on the hot seat, stating there is "zero truth" to speculation about a coaching change."
The Los Angeles Kings are in a 'win-now' season under pressure to improve offensive consistency. Center Phillip Danault is the focus of change-of-scenery trade speculation after recording zero goals and five assists in 29 games, though his defensive play remains strong and his contract plus a no-trade clause complicate a move. The team ranks 27th in goals per game despite a 6-0 win over Chicago, prompting general manager Ken Holland to explore additions to boost scoring and expect more production from Trevor Moore and Andrei Kuzmenko. Young defenseman Brandt Clarke has emerged, scoring twice against Chicago and pacing toward a 40-point season while quarterbacking the power play. Holland has denied coaching-change rumors about Jim Hiller. The schedule runs Dec. 9-14.
Read at The Hockey Writers
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