Recently, the Los Angeles Kings were extensively speculated to be looking for a goaltender. At the 2024 Trade Deadline, there were reports of Linus Ullmark and Jacob Markstrom deals, while Darcy Kuemper conjecture has recently increased. With the offseason starting, it may be a good opportunity to compile all goaltender prospects and assess their chances of playing for the Kings next season.
Linus Ullmark
As the Kings competed for postseason spots at the 2024 Trade Deadline, Kevin Weekes of ESPN The Point stated that “there was a deal that [Ullmark] essentially nixed, in large part based on geography.” Boston Bruins general manager Don Sweeney “declined to answer if Linus Ullmark invoked his no-trade protection,” although these rumors are highly likely to be accurate.
With the offseason starting and the Bruins confidence in Jeremy Swayman’s ability to be the starter, the chances of Ullmark being traded have increased. It’s difficult to estimate what the Bruins will seek, but assets like Pierre-Luc Dubois, the 21st selection in the 2024 NHL Draft, and Jordan Spence might be included. With the Kings and Bruins in different conferences, it is reasonable to expect Ullmark to be dealt to Los Angeles.
Jacob Markstrom
After the Kings missed out on Ullmark at the trade deadline, Nick Kypreos stated on Kyper’s Korner that a deal was in the works to transfer Jacob Markstrom from the Calgary Flames to the Kings, but he turned it down with his no-trade clause, just like Ullmark. It is unclear why Markstrom turned down a deal, but given his dismal season, he may be prepared to waive it.
Markstrom is not as good as Ullmark and earns $1 million more annually, but a deal is still plausible. It will ultimately depend on if the Flames are prepared to accept less than their asking price and Markstrom is willing to play in Los Angeles. However, if both go the Kings’ way, a trade package involving a second-round selection and other minor assets may materialize.
Darcy Kuemper
Jeff Marek just stated that three conversations about Dubois and Kuemper have escalated. The offseason has barely just begun, and there are many negotiations going on, but this move may make the most sense of any reported. Both Dubois and Kuemper underperformed in the 2023-24 season, and the Kings and Washington Capitals may be keen to add quality, so adding these divisive trade alternatives could make sense for both parties. Dubois and Kuemper both have significant upside, so a trade between the two players makes sense.
Juuse Saros
Juuse Saros has received a lot of media attention in recent years, although it is quite unlikely that he will be traded. The Nashville Predators are on the verge of contention, so trading Saros now makes little sense. Of course, if the franchise decides to sell him, the Kings should seek the opportunity, but this is quite improbable.
As the offseason progresses, the Kings must be vigilant in the goaltender situation. They could re-sign David Rittich or Cam Talbot, or perhaps call up Ontario Reign goalkeeper Erik Portillo to the NHL squad next season, but there is an obvious need for a new face in net. It’s unclear whether that plan will come to fruition, and there appears to be little rush to address the matter.
