This offseason presents crucial decisions for several NHL teams. We examine the priorities for the Los Angeles Kings, Ottawa Senators, and Pittsburgh Penguins as they aim to improve their rosters.
Los Angeles Kings’ Offseason Focus
The Los Angeles Kings face significant questions heading into the offseason. With a projected cap space of $18.5 million, their primary needs include finding a top-six forward capable of generating offense. The potential retirement of Anze Kopitar leaves a considerable void down the center. Decisions must also be made regarding pending unrestricted free agents Scott Laughton and Andrei Kuzmenko, while restricted free agent defenseman Brandt Clarke requires a new contract.
Ottawa Senators’ Offseason Strategy
For the Ottawa Senators, with approximately $17.3 million in projected cap space, their core players are largely set. The main pending free agents of note are Claude Giroux and Nick Cousins. General Manager Steve Staios can explore the free agent market. A key acquisition could be a top-four, right-handed defenseman to pair with Thomas Chabot. Additionally, the team might seek another scoring forward for their top six. While not a top priority, acquiring a bottom-six forward like Viktor Arvidsson could also be beneficial.
Pittsburgh Penguins’ Offseason Outlook
The Pittsburgh Penguins possess substantial projected cap space of $45.8 million, opening up numerous possibilities. A central question is whether Sidney Crosby will explore trade options this offseason, as he has one year remaining on his contract and his willingness to participate in a retooling phase is uncertain. Pending unrestricted free agent Evgeni Malkin also presents a significant decision. Despite not being expected to contend this season, the Penguins exceeded expectations, and their performance may influence General Manager Kyle Dubas’ future vision for the team.