A few weeks ago it was noted that the Los Angeles Kings were targeting a right-handed scorer ahead of the trade deadline. We previously suggested that New York Islanders winger Kyle Palmieri, who recently achieved a 30-goal season, would be an ideal acquisition for Los Angeles.
Los Angeles Kings Showing Interest in Islander’s Right-Wing Ahead Of NHL Trade Deadline
It appears the Kings’ front office shares this sentiment, as Stefen Rosner of The Hockey News reported that they have inquired about Palmieri’s availability. However, there was initial speculation that the Islanders might retain Palmieri, given their proximity to the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.
Fortunately for the Kings and other interested teams, David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period has indicated that the Islanders have reassessed their position and are now actively engaging in trade discussions for both Palmieri and center Brock Nelson. Palmieri, who has recorded 19 goals and 40 points in 60 games this season, is expected to generate significant interest at the deadline, particularly if New York is willing to retain a portion of his $5 million cap hit.
The Kings are also among those teams expressing interest in Carolina Hurricanes Mikko Rantanen as the NHL trade deadline approaches as reported by Chris Johnston and Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic.
“The Kings are believed to be among the teams that checked in with Carolina on Mikko Rantanen, but nothing seems to be cooking there,” Johnston and LeBrun wrote. “If anything, the Kings are likely to swing for a single rather than a home run.
“There seem to be some encouraging signs in Los Angeles about the way the group is coming together. The current wish list includes a middle-six winger.”