Image Credit: © Nick Wosika-Imagn Images
The Los Angeles Kings have found themselves facing several questions after an interesting offseason, with fans split down the middle on how strong the team is heading into the 2025-26 campaign.
One player that many fans will have an eye on, until he re-signs or extends with his current team, is Minnesota Wild forward Kirill Kaprizov. While the expectation is that the two sides will be able to agree on an extension, what happens in reality when he hits the open market? Could the Kings pull something off?
Kaprizov is one of the strongest all-around players in the NHL, without a doubt, and he would cost a pretty penny if the Wild were open to trading him. In theory, it’s possible, but there are some things to keep in mind.
First, the Kings would likely want an extension in place before paying a huge price for him. Realistically, an eight-year extension at $15 million annually is what he’s going to ask for; he’s worth it, and the Kings have the money to make it work.
Second, the trade package is going to be ridiculous. Honestly, it may cost the Kings Quinton Byfield, Brandt Clarke, their 2026 first-round pick, their 2027 first-round pick, and a conditional 2028 first-round pick with some guarantee behind the pick that protects them if Kaprizov gets hurt or slows down in any way.
Third, Kaprizov would have to agree to the move, considering his no-movement clause. He would likely be open to contending with the Kings, but it would take some convincing. With all of those things in mind, if they can get them all figured out, targeting a superstar like Kaprizov is a realistic option if the Wild can’t extend him.
