Top Line Forward Joins Washington Capitals From Los Angeles Kings
The Los Angeles Kings have agreed to a major one-for-one swap with the Washington Capitals. Going to the Capitals in this trade is Pierre-Luc Dubois, while heading back to L.A. is goaltender Darcy Kuemper.
Dubois Brings Offence to the American Capital
Dubois recorded 16 goals and 40 points in 82 games with Los Angeles in 2023-24. He tied for third on the team in power play goals with seven, seventh in goals, and eighth in points. In 516 career games with the Kings, Winnipeg Jets, and Columbus Blue Jackets, Dubois has recorded 145 goals. Furthermore, Dubois has recorded 11 goals and 27 points in 43 career playoff games.
Journeymen Goalie Heads to Hollywood
The Kings will be getting an experienced goalie in return. Kuemper posted a record of 13-14-3 with a 3.31 goals-against average, an .890 save percentage, and one shutout in 33 appearances with Washington in 2023-24. Kuemper has a record of 178-135-46 with a 2.61 goals-against average, a .914 save percentage and 31 shutouts in 389 career games with the Capitals, Colorado Avalanche, Arizona Coyotes, Los Angeles Kings, and Minnesota Wild.
A Rare “One for One” Trade Can Help Both Teams
Rarely does a trade of this size happen with just two players involved. However, both teams can benefit in the trade.
The Capitals struggled on offence last season, especially in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The team will hope Dubois can help fix those problems and keep the Capitals in playoff contention.
The Kings have been consistently in the playoffs the last few seasons. While Kuemper does not have any magical playoff runs to his credit, he can be someone who can help the Kings get wins, and possibly improve their playoff position. Most Kings fans would probably like to avoid the Edmonton Oilers in the playoffs, or at least earn home-ice advantage.
Both players will be their new teams for more than one season. Kuemper has two years left on his current contract, while Dubois is under contract through the 2030-31 season.
