In one of those rare things that happen at the American League level, two NHL clubs have swapped prospects — not in a trade, but just in a short-term mutually beneficial-type situation.
The Kings have loaned second-year pro Kaleb Lawrence to the Sabres’ AHL affiliate in Rochester. After producing six goals in 25 games during his rookie season, the hulking 6-foot-7 forward has only suited up in 16 games this season. That’s partially due to an injury that sidelined him for the first three months of 2026-26. However, Ontario also currently has a crowded bottom-6 due to the ongoing development of several other prospects. Coming into the season, with more than a handful of LA’s recent draft picks turning pro at the same time, it’s created a logjam of sorts and today’s move will allow Lawrence more playing time.
In return, the Reign are gaining a 6-foot-4 defenseman in Nikita Novikov. A left shot, he was originally selected by Buffalo at the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. This is his third year in North America. When he first arrived, some were expecting more of a physical edge to his game. Reports from Rochester say he’s shown real good work with the puck, yet he doesn’t bring much offense. He’s a big, tough defender. That’s his game.
With Kings prospects Angus Booth, Kiril Kirsanov, and Jakub Dvorak already on the AHL roster, this feels like more of a depth move. It will be interesting to see how coach Andrew Lord works Novikov into the lineup.
Both players involved in today’s transaction are eligible for AHL postseason action with their new teams. Ontario currently holds first place in the Pacific Division. Rochester sits fifth in the North, the final playoff spot available in that division.
Meanwhile, both NHL clubs retain the rights of their respective players in this transaction.
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