NHL Rumors: Kings Defenseman Could Be Traded

The Los Angeles Kings could trade Olli Maatta before the deadline passes, according to Frank Seravalli.

For the first time in years, the Kings are in a position where they could be buyers at the trade deadline. They sport a 26-17-7 record and hold the second Wild Card spot in the Western Conference. As a way to cement their spot into the postseason this spring, they could look to bring in a high-impact player. In this kind of situation, it would make sense for them to use Maatta as a piece in a deal. They have been linked to Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jakob Chychrun.

Yet, they also could decide to trade Maatta if they end up falling out of the playoff race, too. The 27-year-old is in the final year of his contract and is eligible for unrestricted free agency. The Wild Card race in the Western Conference is extremely tight, so there is no guarantee they will be a playoff team just yet.

In 35 games this season, Maatta has one goal, two assists, and a plus-8 rating. Although he doesn't produce very often offensively, he is a very solid bottom-pair defensive defenseman. Therefore, if he is officially made available by Los Angeles, there could be a market for him. Teams are always looking to improve upon their depth on the backend for the playoffs.

Alas, it will be interesting to see what happens with Maatta from here.