Trade Chatter Involves Kings Moving Phillip Danault [Report]

As per NHL insider Frank Seravalli, “Sources: Trade chatter is picking up around #LAKings center Phil Danault. Multiple teams have inquired with LA on his availability. Danault has emerged as a target amid the thin center market.”

This has not been Danault’s season. He has zero goals and only four assists in 27 games played. His on-ice shooting percentage is extremely low, and reports are that he’s tried everything he’s ever attempted over his 11 years in the NHL to get going offensively. Nothing is working. He says he’s been practicing more, the mental side of his game, taking 200 shots at practice… nothing is helping.

“The best thing I can do is keep working, keep my head up and doing the right thing, whether it’s practice or games, and do the best I can for the team.”

It seems unlikely that the Kings will get much in return for Danault if they are able to move him. He’s a great two-way player who can be highly effective defensively, but with literally no offense, the return won’t be high. He’s got two seasons remaining on his $5.5 million-per-season contract. It’s logical to assume the Kings might have to retain salary in the deal.

That said, the market for centers isn’t deep with options. The Kings find a taker for the full salary if they aren’t looking to hit a home run on a trade.

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