Since the free agent market is pretty sparse in terms of unrestricted free agents this summer, the best options for the most impactful players that the Los Angeles Kings can acquire on the blue line on defense might come from the trade block.
An option for the Kings and general manager Ken Holland this summer to upgrade the blue line on defense could be a reunion with a familiar face, New York Rangers defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov. If the Rangers decide to make significant changes to their roster this offseason, Gavrikov could become an intriguing name to monitor on the trade market.
On an episode of Hot Stove on NHL Network Radio, John Hoven discussed trade rumors early this offseason for the Kings with Dennis Bernstein. In this episode segment, Hoven mentions Gavrikov as a possible player to watch on the trade block in various rumors and discussions early this offseason, who could be linked to the Kings.
"I’m going to throw a name at you. Don’t be surprised if you see Gavrikov back in Los Angeles this summer."John Hoven on Vladislav Gavrikov rumors
Vladislav Gavrikov thrived in his previous stint with the Los Angeles Kings making him an intriguing name to watch in the rumor mill
This still seems like a pretty hypothetical trade rumor for the Kings to go out on the block and get Gavrikov on the blue line on defense this summer.
It does make sense that Holland would explore opportunities to add an experienced defenseman who could make an immediate impact for a team looking to remain competitive in the Western Conference.
If the Rangers were willing to shop Gavrikov on the trade block this summer, it would make a lot of sense for the Kings to show interest here. Gavrikov just had his best statistical season of his career as a defenseman in the NHL, posting a career-high 14 goals, 21 assists, and 35 total points this past regular season with the Rangers in 82 games played.
There is also a potential connection through star forward Artemi Panarin, as Gavrikov and the Kings' star forward have a long-standing friendship dating back to their time representing Russia internationally.
The key here is whether the Rangers are actually willing to shop Gavrikov this offseason. When Gavrikov signed with the Rangers last offseason, it wasn't with the intention of being there for the short term. He signed a seven-year contract deal and put up career-best numbers on the blue line with standout defenseman Adam Fox this past regular season with the Rangers.
Gavrikov was an excellent fit during his previous stint in Los Angeles. After arriving at the 2023 trade deadline, he quickly became one of the Kings' most reliable defensive defensemen and formed a strong partnership with Drew Doughty. His familiarity with the organization is one reason why a potential reunion is easy to envision.
The Kings are a logical landing spot if Gavrikov does become available. He is already familiar with the organization, has a history of success alongside Drew Doughty, and would address a need on the left side of the defense while helping Los Angeles remain competitive in the Western Conference.
While a reunion remains speculative, the connections are easy to understand. Gavrikov thrived in Los Angeles, already has chemistry with key members of the organization, and would immediately fill a need on the left side of the blue line. If the Rangers become more willing to listen on offers this summer, this is a rumor that could gain traction quickly.
