The Los Angeles Kings have quite a few decisions to make on pending UFAs and RFAs this summer and they've made a decision on two, re-signing Andre Lee and Akil Thomas to contracts.
The team announced the one-year, two-way contract for Lee, and according to Dennis Bernstein of the FourthPeriod, are signing Thomas to a two-year contract.
The first year of the deal being two-way is interesting. I doubt Thomas would make it through waivers if the Kings tried to send him down so it seems like an odd addition to the deal.
Either way, it's good to have Thomas locked down for the next two seasons.
There hasn't been an official announcement or reports on what the cap hit will be, however, I'd expect it under $1 million.
Thomas should be in line for a roster spot next season and should have an outside chance at cracking the top nine too.
With Viktor Arvidsson likely testing free agency and Arthur Kaliyev on his way out, there should be a few spots available to Thomas.
Being right-handed will also be a bonus as the Kings are desperately missing righties up front.
Thomas was impressive during his short stint with the team toward the end of last season and showed he can have an impact in the NHL.
I wouldn't expect him to be a hugely productive player offensively but as a Swiss Army Knife who can play both center and wing, kill penalties and play the power play, he'll be a useful addition to the roster.
Lee, on the other hand, is likely reinforcements for Ontario. He had a solid playoff run for the Reign, scoring four times in eight contests, but it's unlikely he's earmarked for the NHL.
With just 13 points in 36 games, his offense isn't enough to stick in the NHL, and while he's big, there isn't enough physicality to make that a calling card at the next level.
Maybe a strong camp steals him a roster spot, but that seems unlikely right now. Especially with players like Akil Thomas, Alex Turcotte and whoever the Kings bring in from the free-agent market all ahead of him.
Of course, organizational depth is never a bad thing and Lee is a solid AHLer to keep around.