March 7, 2024 | 9:38am ET
TheFourthPeriod.com
KINGS STILL LOOKING TO ADD SCORER
Kings GM Rob Blake
The Los Angeles Kings are trying to juggle both the trade market and the salary cap as GM Rob Blake wants to add another scoring winger to the lineup before tomorrow’s 3pm ET trade deadline hits.
As TFP’s David Pagnotta first reported last week, the Kings remain interested in New Jersey Devils right wing Tyler Toffoli.
Toffoli, 31, is in the final year of a four-year, $17 million contract and is set to become an unrestricted free agent July 1. He does not own any no-trade protection as part of his contract.
The Devils have been trying to get Toffoli signed to a multi-year contract extension but as New Jersey GM Tom Fitzgerald revealed on Tuesday, the two sides have a difference of opinion on term, with Toffoli’s camp looking for a lengthier deal.
While it is possible Toffoli re-ups with the Devils, the Kings have made it known that they would like to bring him back to Los Angeles, if possible. However, the Devils would likely need to retain half of his $4.25 million salary cap hit and the Kings may need a third team to retain another chunk.
The Kings aren’t alone in their pursuit of Toffoli. The Vegas Golden Knights, Vancouver Canucks, Carolina Hurricanes, Florida Panthers and Boston Bruins are all looking to add up front, even after both Vegas and Florida made acquisitions already.
Los Angeles has been dangling young sniper Arthur Kaliyev as trade bait around the NHL and he could be part of a package for immediate help up front.
In 61 games with the Devils so far this season, Toffoli has registered 26 goals and 18 assists for 44 points.