The National Hockey League's rumour mill is buzzing this week with significant news surrounding veteran centre Phillip Danault of the Los Angeles Kings. Multiple reports confirm that the 32-year-old forward has formally requested a trade, setting off a flurry of inquiries from several teams looking to bolster their rosters before the league's annual transaction halt.
Danault's Situation and Kings' Stance
Phillip Danault is currently in the fifth season of a substantial six-year contract that pays him $5.5 million per season. However, the 2025–26 campaign has proven challenging for the experienced player. In 29 games with the Kings so far, he has managed only five assists, a output suggesting he might benefit from a change of scenery. The Kings' management, acknowledging the situation, is reportedly open to facilitating a move. However, they are in no rush and are prepared to wait for the right proposal to ensure they receive fair value in return for the seasoned centre.
Suitors Line Up for the Proven Forward
At least three Eastern Conference teams have emerged as potential destinations for Danault, each with their own motivations for pursuing a deal.
The Montreal Canadiens, where Danault spent a significant portion of his career, are naturally linked to a possible reunion. His familiarity with the organisation and city makes them a compelling candidate.
The New Jersey Devils have also officially inquired about his availability. They are seen as a team seeking a reliable, two-way forward who can contribute in crucial, high-pressure situations, especially as they push for playoff contention.
Similarly, the Carolina Hurricanes are actively exploring the trade market. Their interest stems from a desire to add more scoring depth and veteran experience to their forward lines, qualities that Danault can provide despite his current statistical dip.
The Impending Deadline and Wider Impact
All these discussions are happening against the clock, with the NHL's roster freeze set for December 20. This deadline pressures all involved teams to finalise their strategies and negotiations swiftly. For the Kings, the challenge is to strike a delicate balance: securing the best possible return for Danault while ensuring the trade does not adversely affect their team's competitiveness for the rest of the season.
Fans and hockey analysts across North America and among the global Indian NHL fanbase are watching these developments closely. A trade involving Phillip Danault is not just a simple player movement; it could significantly alter the team dynamics and playoff race in the Eastern Conference. Whether he returns to a familiar setting in Montreal, joins the Devils' core, or strengthens the Hurricanes' push, his move is poised to be one of the notable stories as the freeze deadline approaches.
