I think he was producing very well when the Jets had him with Connor last year. Once the Jets realized he would not stay, he was moved off that line. I paid attention.
Dubois to me is not the type to lead a line by himself. I would put a lot of blame to the Kings management on this. Paid a big price to acquire and gave him a big contract but then decided to ice 3 lines with talent spread out. Dubois as the 3rd wheel.
Big price to pay in trade value, big contract, and then decided to play him 15 min/game and on the 3rd line. Makes no sense at all.... regardless of how much fans think he is cancer. I think it's gravitating to lets alienate him now more than it should be.
Remember when the trade happened? Lots of fans wondered why the Kings were adding another center? I thought they would utilize him as a power forward type winger in their top 6 and he's there for insurance at center in case of injuries.
I think the Kings will do something different next year if he stays. A $8.5M center on the 3rd line. Come on man.
Flames with Huberdeau and they have to retain to cover the AAV difference and age with Huberdeau.
Buy out? Doubt it but possible. 1/3 the cost is manageable but not ideal.
Nothing else makes sense. Cost would be too high for the Kings.