Kings working to get Brad Richards?

DP · Oct 24, 2010

TheHockeyNews.com

Murray’s admission he’s seeking a move could relegate the recent trade speculation swirling around Dallas Stars center Brad Richards to the back burner.

Craig Custance of The Sporting News pointed out the Los Angeles Kings have plenty of available cap space to take on a big salary and could pursue Richards if the Stars decide they cannot re-sign him.

ESPN.com’s John Buccigross, in response to a reader’s question, suggested the Stars should be able to get a first round pick, a prospect and a solid roster player for Richards.

Buccigross listed the Los Angeles Kings, Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Rangers as potential suitors, adding the Maple Leafs and Rangers could offer up a “five- to seven-year, $30-million to $40-million contract.”

Meanwhile, Mike Heika of The Dallas Morning News, in response to a reader’s email, rejected the possibility Richards would accept a contract extension similar to the three-year, $21-million deal Joe Thornton recently inked with the San Jose Sharks.

Heika noted Richards will be the best available player in next summer’s UFA market, which will have considerable impact on his value. Uncertainty over the Stars ownership remains a factor as he’s unlikely to be offered a new contract until there’s a new owner in place.

Bear in mind that since 2005-06 only two trades involving notable players have occurred early in the season: the San Jose Sharks acquisition of Joe Thornton from Boston and the Columbus Blue Jackets trading for Sergei Fedorov from Anaheim. Both took place in November of 2005 and thanks to salary cap constraints there haven’t been any comparable early-season deals since.

In other words, regardless of how the Stars are playing, Richards won’t be moved before the New Year.
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Interesting. If the Kings end up landing Richards by the trade deadline, I think the Kings could get a big boost towards their playoff push. Potential to get into the playoffs and play for the Stanley Cup.

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Kings working to get Brad Richards?

DP He shoots, he scores!

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Kings working to get Brad Richards?

DP He shoots, he scores!

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