Confidential trade info gets out hinting at imminent move

Confidential trade chatter surrounding Phillip Danault has NHL insiders buzzing, which has fans wondering if a move could be imminent. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, one of the league’s most trusted insiders, weighed in on the rumors, suggesting the news itself may signal that a trade is mutually desirable.

“The fact this got out, it says to me that the player on some level would welcome [a trade] too,” Friedman said. He added that the situation seems like one where both the team and player might be aligned in making a move happen.

Reports have also speculated that Danault’s own agent may be behind some of the leaks, strategically trying to get his client moved before the league’s holiday trade freeze next week.

Such timing would allow Danault to settle with a new team and make an immediate impact before the season enters its second half of the calendar.

Danault is in the fifth year of a six-year contract paying him $5.5 million per season. So far, he’s managed just five assists in 29 games with the Los Angeles Kings, far below expectations for a player of his experience and salary.

For Danault, a change of scenery could be just what is needed to get back on track. Whether it’s a fresh system, a new set of linemates, or simply a mental reset, the 32-year-old veteran center might thrive in a different environment.

Nick Kypreos added to the chatter when he wrote in his latest column:

“ I’m hearing this may stem from his unhappiness over ice time and his role under head coach Jim Hiller. While Danault averaged 17:40 of ice time per game last season, he’s down to 16:25 in 2025-26.”

With insider chatter already making headlines, fans will be watching closely in the coming days to see if the Kings pull the trigger on a trade that could shake up the roster before the holiday break. One thing is certain: the Phillip Danault situation is heating up, and it looks like a move could be closer than anyone expected.