Los Angeles Kings GM Rob Blake says signing $68 million center was a mistake

Los Angeles Kings GM Rob Blake said signing Pierre-Luc Dubois for $68 million over eight years was a mistake. Last summer, Blake traded for Dubois to strengthen the team's center options for the playoffs. However, Dubois' costly contract was a miscalculation.

Looking back on the season, Blake saw a problem and said the trade was a mistake in managing team assets. It also gave the Kings $3.25 million in salary-cap relief.

“I don’t think I did a good enough job integrating him in the right roles on the team here this year,” Blake said (via nytimes.com) “I think it wasn’t a great fit in that aspect for us, and we’ll take responsibility for that.”

Dubois was originally a significant addition but struggled to find his place in the Kings' lineup. Despite changes in lines and coaching, his time in Los Angeles didn't work out. Dubois had a tough season, totaling 16 goals and 24 assists in 2023-24.

Blake recognized the team's goalie issues as well. The team switched goalies due to injuries and performance problems. Blake believes that Darcy Kuemper and David Rittich can lead effectively.

“We’ve had to go to different goalies here the last couple of years throughout the season for different circumstances,” Blake said. “We have comfort in those two getting us to where we want to get to.”

The trade sending Dubois to the Washington Capitals in exchange for veteran goalie Darcy Kuemper signals a strategic change for the Los Angeles Kings. Blake admitted his mistake and acted practically. Despite financial setbacks, Blake focuses on making the team better.

Washington Capitals trade Darcy Kuemper to Los Angeles Kings for Pierre-Luc Dubois

On Wednesday, the Washington Capitals traded goalie Darcy Kuemper to the Los Angeles Kings for center Pierre-Luc Dubois. Washington General manager Brian MacLellan confirmed it was a straight swap without any salary adjustments.

MacLellan expressed confidence in Dubois' potential to succeed in Washington.

"We are thrilled to announce the addition of Pierre-Luc to the Caps organization," MacLellan said (via NHL.com)."This acquisition brings in a talented 25-year-old with immense potential to become a top-tier center in the NHL.

"With his size, exceptional skating, and high hockey IQ, we are confident he will thrive in our organization with increased responsibility and opportunity."

Dubois struggled with the Los Angeles Kings after playing well with the Winnipeg Jets. Kuemper had a tough time in Washington, losing his starting goalie role to Charlie Lindgren. He had a .890 save percentage and 3.31 goals against average in 33 games, his worst season yet.