On the Los Angeles Kings, Milan Lucic, Trevor Lewis, Dwight King and Jason Demers …
Pierre LeBrun: Milan Lucic in a text message said that he’ll be going to free agency. The Los Angeles Kings still have time to make him another offer, but Lucic’s sees himself becoming a free agent at this point. Kings GM Dean Lombardi confirmed in a text that Lucic is headed to free agency. Lombardi said that the other 29 teams have been sent a letter giving them permission to talk with Lucic’s camp.
Dennis Bernstein: Hearing that money may not have been the issue with a Lucic extension. Lucic was wanting to get a max deal for his security, with the Kings only willing to go four years.
Billy Jaffe: Told the issues with the Kings and Lucic was term more than the money.
Jon Rosen of LA Kings Insider: From talks with team sources, GM Dean Lombardi met with Milan Lucic on Tuesday, and they obviously weren’t able to get a deal done. The Kings are now able to spend money elsewhere.
If the Kings had re-signed Lucic, they could have moved one of their young forwards or prospects for a young defenseman.
They may now be able to re-sign Trevor Lewis who will want a raise from his $1.55 million cap hit.
The Kings currently have just over $65 million committed to 18 players for next season.
Steve Ewen: Lucic on what teams he might consider in free agency: “Any team is an option. I haven’t thought about another team yet.”
Steve Ewen: Lucic on his hope to re-sign with the Kings: “I wanted it to work out but it didn’t so I’m going to explore my options.”
Josh Cooper: Think that Lucic still could sign with the Kings, or remain in California with the Ducks. The Ducks have the cap space and they need a left winger.
Dennis Bernstein: Think the Kings will be in on Jason Demers if they don’t make any draft day deals.
John Hoven: Hearing that Dwight King is likely to be traded at the draft. Would have never expected Darryl Sutter to sign off on trading King and don’t have confirmation that he did. As have mentioned before, going to be a roster makeover.
Dennis Bernstein: If the Kings trade King, could be for a mid-round pick.