Kings Eye Veteran Forward Erik Haula as Free Agency Approaches

As NHL free agency looms on July 1, the Los Angeles Kings appear poised to address one of their offseason priorities by bolstering their forward depth. With veteran forward Scott Laughton expected to depart, the Kings are exploring potential additions, and one name emerging prominently is Erik Haula. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman recently highlighted Haula as a candidate for Los Angeles during a segment on The Game Nashville.

“The one name I did hear is that Erik Haula might end up in LA,” Friedman stated, hinting at the possibility of the veteran winger joining the Kings.

Haula, who brings a wealth of experience and versatility, could significantly enhance a Kings roster eager for reliable depth under new head coach Peter Laviolette. Over his 14-season NHL career, the 35-year-old has played for seven different teams, establishing himself as a dependable two-way forward capable of contributing offensively throughout the lineup.

Last season, Haula played for the Nashville Predators, where he recorded 14 goals and 38 points across 81 games. In 840 career NHL games, he has amassed 147 goals and 375 points while demonstrating his ability to fill various roles on both ends of the ice.

For the Kings, pursuing Haula makes strategic sense, especially given the anticipated vacancy left by Laughton. Adding a seasoned player like Haula not only provides depth but also brings playoff experience and lineup flexibility. Furthermore, he is likely to come at a more manageable price compared to some of the higher-profile free agents available.

Haula is coming off a three-year, $9.45 million contract and is expected to seek a similar annual salary on a shorter deal. Projections suggest a one- or two-year contract in the range of $3 million to $4 million in average annual value, despite the NHL’s rising salary cap.

Additionally, due to Haula’s age, he is eligible for a one-year contract incorporating performance bonuses, which could offer the Kings further flexibility. With approximately $11 million in available salary cap space as free agency approaches, a deal structured with a lower guaranteed salary and attainable incentives could allow Los Angeles to enhance its forward group while optimizing cap space.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.