The Los Angeles Kings have completed a sign-and-trade deal with the Winnipeg Jets to acquire center Pierre-Luc Dubois. In exchange, the Jets received Gabriel Vilardi, Alex Iafallo, Rasmus Kupari, and a 2024 second-round pick.
Dubois, a restricted free agent, signed an eight-year contract worth $85 million with the Jets before being traded to the Kings. The 25-year-old center had an impressive 63-point season with the Jets and has established himself as a strong top-six center during his six-year NHL career.
Originally drafted third overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2016 NHL Draft, Dubois spent three seasons with them before being traded to the Jets in 2021. In his 195 games with the Jets, Dubois recorded 63 goals and 80 assists.
The Kings have high hopes for Dubois, believing he can elevate his game and eventually take over as the first-line center once Anze Kopitar retires. Los Angeles general manager Rob Blake expressed excitement about Dubois joining the organization and committing to a long-term partnership, praising his unique skillset and ability to contribute to all aspects of the game.
For the Jets, this trade is part of their offseason roster reconstruction following an early exit from the playoffs. The return package includes Vilardi, the 11th overall pick in the 2017 NHL Draft, who showcased his potential with 23 goals in 68 games and strong defensive abilities in the 2022-23 season. Iafallo, a reliable middle-six forward who spent six seasons with the Kings, brings depth and contributed 36 points in 59 games last season. Kupari, the 20th overall pick in 2018, has yet to fully establish himself in the NHL but may have an opportunity to expand his role with the Jets.
The trade marks a significant move for both teams, with the Kings securing a promising center and the Jets making important roster adjustments for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about sign-and-trade
What trade did the Los Angeles Kings make involving Pierre-Luc Dubois?
The Los Angeles Kings acquired center Pierre-Luc Dubois from the Winnipeg Jets in a sign-and-trade deal.
What did the Winnipeg Jets receive in exchange for Pierre-Luc Dubois?
In exchange for Pierre-Luc Dubois, the Winnipeg Jets received Gabriel Vilardi, Alex Iafallo, Rasmus Kupari, and a 2024 second-round pick.
How long is Pierre-Luc Dubois’ contract with the Winnipeg Jets?
Pierre-Luc Dubois signed an eight-year contract worth $85 million with the Winnipeg Jets before being traded to the Los Angeles Kings.
How has Pierre-Luc Dubois performed in his NHL career?
Pierre-Luc Dubois has established himself as a strong top-six center in his six-year NHL career, coming off a 63-point season with the Winnipeg Jets.
Who selected Pierre-Luc Dubois in the NHL Draft?
Pierre-Luc Dubois was selected by the Columbus Blue Jackets with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2016 NHL Draft before being traded to the Winnipeg Jets in 2021.
What is the outlook for Pierre-Luc Dubois with the Los Angeles Kings?
The Los Angeles Kings are banking on Pierre-Luc Dubois to elevate his game and potentially take over as the first-line center once Anze Kopitar retires.
What other players were involved in the trade?
In addition to Pierre-Luc Dubois, the trade involved Gabriel Vilardi, Alex Iafallo, Rasmus Kupari, and a 2024 second-round pick.
Why did the Winnipeg Jets make this trade?
The Winnipeg Jets decided to reconstruct their roster following an early playoff exit, and this trade was a significant step in that process.
Who are the notable players in the return package for the Winnipeg Jets?
The return package for the Winnipeg Jets includes Gabriel Vilardi, a promising forward, Alex Iafallo, a reliable middle-six forward, and Rasmus Kupari, a young player with potential.
More about sign-and-trade
- Los Angeles Kings
- Winnipeg Jets
- Pierre-Luc Dubois NHL Profile
- Gabriel Vilardi NHL Profile
- Alex Iafallo NHL Profile
- Rasmus Kupari NHL Profile
- 2016 NHL Draft
- 2024 NHL Draft
2 comments
can’t wait to see dubois on the kings, gonna be interesting to see if he can fill kopitar’s shoes. #futurestar
wow, kings got pierre-luc dubois in sign and trade! he gonna be sooo gooood for them kings! #excited