One of the things that the fans of the Los Angeles Kings were waiting for was the return of defenseman Drew Doughty. Out since the preseason after breaking his ankle the future Hall of Famer returned last week after a lengthy absence. With Doughty returning, someone had to sit and that player was defenseman Brandt Clarke. Rumors started to circulate about Clarke and if he were available for trade. Does General Manager Rob Blake want to trade the young star?
Clarke was the Kings’ eighth pick in the 2021 NHL Draft. After successful season with the American Hockey League’s (AHL) Ontario Reign, Clarke made his NHL debut and fit right in. Although he would only produce two assists in his nine game during his first NHL season, there were signs he would play a big role in the team’s success. He would do just that and score two goals and four assists for six points in 16 games the following season.
This season, Clarke has had a breakout season, totaling three goals and 21 assists for 24 points in 48 games. While his play has been solid, he only has one assist in his last five games. Is there a chance we see him in a different uniform by the end of the season? Anything is possible after seeing the big trades over the past couple of weeks.
Clarke has not disappointed offensively on the ice, showcasing skills that made him a high draft pick three years ago. He has also been a nice offensive creator, displaying the puck to areas that were picked up by teammates for a nice scoring chance. The only knock on Clarke is his defensive play to which his defense has never been elite. His offense is what the Kings coveted when they drafted him, knowing full well that was his calling card.
If Blake were to move him, what would the return be? Could it be a move where the return sets up the Kings nicely for future success and fills some holes organizationally? Will it be a trade that sends more than Clarke to another team? Los Angeles is an upper-class team but does have some holes to fill, whether it be a Clarke trade or another trade to fix that.
A Clarke trade has not been confirmed as it is only rumors. However, it is the feeling that Los Angeles will be active at the trade deadline to move up in the division. With the current setup of the Pacific Division, the Kings have work to do. Playoffs are not that far away and this may be a good time for Blake to see what can be moved out for a nice return. Expect this team to look different after the deadline as they try to get this team ready for the 2025 NHL Playoffs.
(photo: lakingsinsider.com; Scott Burnside)
(photo: lakingsinsider.com; Jack Jablonski)
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