“15 to 20 teams interested” in Kings’ Pierre-Luc Dubois!

On Monday, Kings general manager Rob Blake confirmed that he has no plans to buy out forward Pierre-Luc Dubois despite his disappointing first season in Los Angeles. Dubois played all 82 games, but collected just 16 goals and 24 assists, and his average ice time of 15:42 was nearly two minutes below his previous career average of 17:37.

When he first came to LA from the Winnipeg Jets in exchange for fellow forwards Gabriel Vilardi, Alex Iafallo, and Rasmus Kupari, as well as a second-round pick in this year’s draft, everyone had high expectations for Dubois. He was signed to an eight-year, $68-million contract shortly before he was sent to the Kings as part of a sign-and-trade, but once the postseason came to an end, rumours started emerging that his run could already be over in Los Angeles.

And so if a buyout isn’t in the cards, speculation of a potential trade remains and got even louder when his agent Pat Brisson spoke in French in an interview on the air of 98.5 Sports radio in Montreal, explaining how his client had gotten interest from 15 to 20 teams when he became available for trade last summer. As Brisson revealed how the Kings did their due diligence before acquiring his client and that is why they believe in him, he spoke about how many clubs came calling in hopes of acquiring the former third overall pick in 2018.

“We must not forget that he is just 25 years old, not 33… I had at least 15 to 20 teams who were interested in Pierre-Luc Dubois. They all did their homework on him.”

The agent also confirmed that there had indeed been discussions with the Canadiens to get the young Quebecois in Montreal. but it was ultimately in Los Angeles that he wanted to play.

But let's be honest : at this point with Dubois' disappointing season in the books, it feels like that homework has been eaten by a dog... 

Dubois recently stated that he is willing to do anything to redeem himself next season.

“I have to be better. At the end of the day, I’m the one who’s responsible. (…) I’m ready to do anything to have a better season next year.”

While GM Blake put some of the blame on the coaching staff, Dubois needs to focus on getting better, whether he stays in Los Angeles or not. He can start right away as he joins Team Canada at the World Championships. If Dubois can put together a strong tournament, it could be the confidence boost he needs to come back stronger and better next NHL season.

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