The Los Angeles Kings have reportedly set their sights on acquiring talented center Pierre-Luc Dubois from the Winnipeg Jets, generating significant attention across the NHL.
Negotiations between the two teams are heating up, with several players and pieces potentially heading to Winnipeg, including Gabe Vilardi and Alex Iafallo. The Kings are also aiming to secure a contract extension for Dubois as part of the deal.
David Pagnotta tweeted:
"All eyes on the Los Angeles Kings as they try to get to the finish line with the Winnipeg Jets to acquire Pierre-Luc Dubois. Multiple players/pieces would be going to Winnipeg if this gets done, including Gabe Vilardi and Alex Iafallo, and an extension for PLD would be expected."
Pierre-Luc Dubois currently plays for the Winnipeg Jets. The Canadian was selected as the third overall pick in the 2016 NHL entry draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he spent three seasons before being traded to the Jets.
According to Murat Ates, a reporter covering the Winnipeg Jets for The Athletic, there are discussions between the Los Angeles Kings and Pierre-Luc Dubois' camp regarding a potential contract extension. He suggests that a trade involving Dubois to the Kings is becoming more likely. As negotiations progress, it appears that both parties are actively working towards reaching an agreement.
In the 2021-22 season, Dubois played 81 games and recorded impressive stats, tallying 28 goals and 32 assists for a total of 60 points. He followed up with another strong performance in the 2022-23 season, playing 73 games and notching 27 goals and 36 assists, accumulating a total of 63 points.
The Los Angeles Kings' decision to trade Sean Durzi was a well-calculated move that aligned with their roster needs, long-term planning, and financial considerations.
Although Durzi showcased immense potential, this trade allowed the team to optimize its assets and strengthen the overall roster.
With an additional draft pick in their arsenal and an extra $1.55 million in cap space, the Kings are not necessarily finished making moves, according to insiders. This trade positions them favorably to pursue players like Dubois.
A closer look at Pierre-Luc Dubois's personal life and family
Born on June 24, 1998, Pierre-Luc Dubois hails from Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, Quebec. However, he spent his formative years growing up in Rimouski.
Pierre-Luc Dubois enjoys the privilege of holding dual citizenship in both Canada and the United States. His mother, Jill, originally hails from Atlanta, Georgia. His father, Eric Dubois, has a notable background as a former professional ice hockey player. Eric serves as the defensive coach for the Manitoba Moose, the AHL affiliate of the Winnipeg Jets.
Dubois' hockey journey commenced at the tender age of three when he first stepped onto the ice in Germany. This early experience coincided with his father's time competing in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL). Growing up, Dubois had the unique opportunity to immerse himself in the sport in different countries and environments.