Ben Shelley: Kings have cap space but must be cautious in how they use it

Wouldn't mind Danault at the going rate (money/years). This would allow Kopitar and then Byfield to open up their offense.

But, I believe he would want to go back to the finals sooner than later. So off to Vegas.

yes absolutely. but one shouldn't be overly cautious as well. if you win in this league you are going to be in cap hell, no matter what. just look at Chicago, Pittsburgh, Washington, Tampa, etc. it's much more important that we develop the youth in a competitive environment, rather than a losing one. so adding the right veteran piece now is key going forward.

jackball,

Really interesting idea about bring in Danault to play 3rd line center in a defensive role. That'd really protect Byfield, allow Vilardi to shift to RW and... (and this is a shocker)... allow Kopitar to center a Scoring Line.

The organization talked about how much it helped Brown to decrease his defensive responsibilities this year and instead allow him to focus on scoring (taking him of the PK, for example). Brown himself stated that he had way more energy during games. That might be a nice blueprint for Kopitar to follow if Danault can come in and play that role.

I feel like I remember Danault being displeased with his "shutdown" role in Montreal though -- It doesn't seem likely that he wants to join a team that would obviously utilize his skills as a shutdown center if he feels like he has more offensive upside.

Interesting idea though! I wonder what kind of contract I would be happy with if the Kings signed him -- would you go over 5m a year?

yes absolutely. but one shouldn't be overly cautious as well. if you win in this league you are going to be in cap hell, no matter what. just look at Chicago, Pittsburgh, Washington, Tampa, etc. it's much more important that we develop the youth in a competitive environment, rather than a losing one. so adding the right veteran piece now is key going forward.
- Bernie9

Agree that the Kings shouldn't be afraid of Cap hell -- but I think the question is "when", rather then "if". If you fall into cap hell too early, you can't add the right pieces at the right time -- It's all about timing.

The teams that figure out when to be in cap hell -- those are usually the team that fight for the cup.

The Kings should perhaps spend more money this year, either to improve the roster or to acquire additional assets -- but cap hell isn't something we should have to worry about for another few years.

I would like to see 5-6 mil/year for 4 years.

If things go well, the old guard goes out happy with the teams in the playoff mix. The youngsters are bona fide NHL's. By that time Danault could be one on the captains.

If he likes what is happening, sign a final contract. Or if Akil Thomas steps up. He could be traded for trade deadline acquisitions.

If not him, wait for next season's trade deadline instead of picking up someone now. If that means missing out on Eichel or Tarasenko, so be it.

I would like to see 5-6 mil/year for 4 years.

If things go well, the old guard goes out happy with the teams in the playoff mix. The youngsters are bona fide NHL's. By that time Danault could be one on the captains.

If he likes what is happening, sign a final contract. Or if Akil Thomas steps up. He could be traded for trade deadline acquisitions.

If not him, wait for next season's trade deadline instead of picking up someone now. If that means missing out on Eichel or Tarasenko, so be it.
- jackball

Why pay a 3rd line center 5-6 mill???that's what leads to cap hell,bad signings.danault is an excellent shutdown guy,no arguement.we need scoring not shutdown players.we have the makings of a danault in turcotte imo,just be patient guys the kids are coming and we will contend again soon.

What moves will the Kings be making today, fellas?

What moves will the Kings be making today, fellas?
- Matt Ross

$2.7M for resigning AA? Really

Probably an unpopular opinion, but I hope they stay away from Eichel.

Stay the course with youth/rebuild. I would hate to see them have to give up a bunch of that for Eichel and ruin the progress they have made so far.

$2.7M for resigning AA? Really
- Tee56

Nice to keep his speed in the lineup.

Danault signed to six-year deal with an AAV $5.5

Nice pickup!

Would've given more money for less years. Hopefully management didn't agree to a no trade / no movement clause.

Great pick-up. Now bring in the kids.