The Los Angeles Kings have come under fire for their early offseason moves, especially on defense. Analyst Shayna Goldman didn’t hold back in her assessment, labeling the Kings as “the biggest loser” on Day 1 of NHL free agency.
Los Angeles Kings’ Defensive Strategy Draws Criticism
Their decision to re-sign forward Andrei Kuzmenko was seen as a promising start. He had shown strong chemistry with the team following the trade deadline. But that momentum quickly shifted with the signings of veterans Cody Ceci and Brian Dumoulin.
Ceci agreed to a four-year deal carrying a $4.5 million average annual value, while Dumoulin landed a three-year contract worth $4 million per season.
The @LAKings have signed defensemen Cody Ceci to a four-year contract with an average annual value (AAV) of $4,500,000 through the 2028-29 season and Brian Dumoulin to a three-year contract with an AAV of $4,000,000 through the 2027-28 season. Additionally, the Kings have signed… pic.twitter.com/pC7TEVjbZ9
— LA Kings PR (@LAKingsPR) July 1, 2025
Those deals, however, have left many scratching their heads. Critics have pointed out that both players are past their prime and may no longer be suited for heavy minutes on a team trying to remain competitive in a fast-paced Western Conference.
Goldman highlighted Ceci’s struggles in top-pair roles in both Edmonton and Dallas. His defensive metrics have consistently raised concerns, even when considering the tough assignments he’s faced.
Dumoulin, now in his mid-30s, is more effective in a sheltered third-pairing role. Relying on him for more than that could expose the Kings to the same issues that have hindered their playoff progress in recent years.
Los Angeles Kings’ Blue Line Looks Outdated After Recent Signings
Ceci and Dumoulin bring a combined total of over 1,500 NHL games, but their presence adds to a growing issue on the back end. With Joel Edmundson already in the mix, Los Angeles now features three defensemen with limited mobility. For a team that’s been consistently overmatched by faster playoff opponents, this direction feels like a step back.
Last season, Ceci split time between the Sharks and Stars, posting 24 points across 85 games and finishing with a strong plus-15 in Dallas. Dumoulin played 80 games for the Devils and Ducks, contributing 22 points and logging significant playoff minutes.
Despite those numbers, concerns remain about whether either can anchor key defensive responsibilities moving forward.
Combined, the Kings committed over $8 million annually to two aging players. Observers expected bolder decisions like moves that would reshape the roster and address past playoff shortcomings. Instead, the front office has doubled down on experience and size, perhaps at the cost of speed and adaptability.
It’s possible that the presence of Drew Doughty and Mikey Anderson will help balance things out. Their steady play could allow Ceci and Dumoulin to avoid being overexposed. Still, many believe that relying on structure alone won’t be enough to overcome the challenges that have plagued this group for the last few years.
The offseason isn’t over, but early impressions of the Los Angeles Kings’ strategy have left many wondering about the team’s direction. For a franchise that’s repeatedly hit a wall in the postseason, every move matters, and these ones aren’t winning much confidence.
