The Kings keep getting linked to Vincent Trocheck, and on the surface it makes sense. He’s familiar with Peter Laviolette, he’s played with Artemi Panarin, and he’s been a reliable two-way center who can kill penalties, win draws, and bring leadership to a playoff group.

But familiarity isn’t the same as impact.

Trocheck is still a solid player, even in a season shortened by injury. He finished with 16 goals and 37 assists in 67 games, which still projects as steady middle-six production over a full year. The issue is more about timing and ceiling than ability. At 33 with term left on his deal, it's a tough sell. 

If the Kings are serious about changing their playoff trajectory after five straight first-round exits, the conversation probably has to go bigger.

That’s where Dylan Larkin comes in.

Larkin is younger, faster, and more dynamic offensively, with five straight 30-goal seasons and the ability to drive a top line rather than just support one. Even in another season that ended without a playoff berth for Detroit, he kept producing down the stretch and continued to show he can take over games on his own.

Trocheck helps you stay steady.

Larkin gives you another gear.

Los Angeles: the choice is yours.