Let the fun begin, as they say.
Prior to the Kings taking on the Islanders on Thursday evening, GM Ken Holland got in a little afternoon workout of sorts. In advance of tomorrow’s Trade Deadline, he moved Warren Foegele to Ottawa in a deal that yields LA a 2026 second-round draft pick and a conditional third-round pick.
The second rounder is actually Buffalo’s pick, as Ottawa previously traded their own second rounder to Calgary. This pick would be one the Senators acquired from the Sabres as part of a previous trade involving Josh Norris and Dylan Cozens.
In addition to Foegele, the Kings are believed to have sent a conditional third round pick back to the Senators, as well (essentially, a swap of thirds that would give the Kings better positioning in that round). Final details of the conditions on both sides are still pending.
Foegele has one more year remaining on his three-year deal, carrying an AAV of $3.5M. However, this move wasn’t so much about creating cap space for the Kings as it was opening up a potential spot for another forward on LA’s roster. Since Holland’s acquisition of Artemi Panarin a few weeks ago — and combined with several injuries — the Kings lineup has been in a bit of flux, and this trade removes one of the puzzle pieces.
Now 29 years old and originally signed as a free agent during the summer of 2024, Foegele had an impressive first year in SoCal, scoring a career-high 24 goals and 46 points during his first season with the club. Things haven’t gone as well in 2025-26. Somewhat slowed by an upper body injury earlier this season, Foegele has been limited to seven goals and only two assists in 47 games played.
Following the move, LA does not have 12 healthy forwards for tonight’s game with the Islanders. A recall from AHL Ontario is likely, although guys like Jared Wright just played for the Reign last night.
Will this be Holland’s only move before the Trade Deadline? See the KOTP episode linked below for an extended conversation about what could be in store.
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