After adding six new players to their organization via trades and draft picks this weekend, the Kings kept a key supporting cast member in the fold by re-signing forward Trevor Moore to a two-year deal.
Moore, 26, was a restricted free agent who was protected in Wednesday’s expansion draft. General Manager Rob Blake expressed optimism regarding a new contract Friday. On Saturday, the Kings announced they had inked Moore to a deal that will pay the forward $3.75 million over the next two seasons, with an annual average value of $1.875 million.
“He’s been one of our most consistent players; he gives us effort every night,” Kings Coach Todd McLellan said of Moore after a late-season loss to Vegas.
Moore played in all 56 games for the Kings last season, his first full campaign at the NHL level. He posted career highs in goals (10), assists (13) and points (23). Beyond the scoresheet, Moore was a player who was at once energetic and reliable. He often figured into the team’s strongest efforts on the forecheck and gave them a dependable piece to move around a young lineup often in flux.
A native of Thousand Oaks, Moore was a standout at the University of Denver for three seasons before signing as an undrafted free agent with the Toronto Maple Leafs. He was sent to the Kings as part of a trade that shipped winger Kyle Clifford and goalie Jack Campbell to Toronto two seasons ago.
Moore still has family in the San Fernando Valley and has relished the opportunity to stick as an NHL regular for his hometown team. Last season, he played in his 100th NHL game. He can line up at center or wing, and in addition to the pace he brings at even strength, he has proven valuable in other facets of the game.
“His game is full of energy. Competitive in open ice and competitive in tight areas. Puck protection, separation, solid penalty killer and a great team guy,” McLellan rattled off late last season shortly after Moore’s milestone game.
Having emerged from a crowded field of young forwards with a firm roster spot and a new contract, Moore appears poised to play at least 164 more games in black and silver.
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