The Kings are THE oldest team in the league, and if Blake would have done nothing to show Doughty that he’s committed to build a better team NOW, Drew would not even consider an offer to resign in LA.
Blake had/has 2 options: improve the team via free agency or via trade. Unfortunately the second option implies sacrificing again picks and prospects, which is something we cannot afford AT ALL.
Kovalchuk might be 35, but he’s still one of the best winger in the game, a 2 year contract would have been better, but he fits with this group age wise:’on paper he’s a great option for Kopitar, and for our PP too.
If we check the ages of our core players, the picture is pretty clear:
Kopitar is 31
Quick is 32
Carter is 33
Brown is 34
When Kovalchuk contract will expire, the window of this group will be closed for good anyway, that’s why for no reason Blake has to trade any asset, either picks and prospects. Skinner, Pacioretty & C. have a steep price and I’m glad we didn’t pay it. Besides, in case of an extension they would have wanted more years and money, and they are not difference makers. Better keep Vilardi, Clague and not mortgage our future once again.
This move to me is very simple. Blake will try to go all in in the next couple seasons, and this move shows it. His problem is the legacy left by Lombardi: a pile of shitty contracts to deal with and a depleted farm team.