The Edmonton Oilers have shown flashes of their potential this season, like their 6-3 win against the Utah Mammoth. But there are still questions around consistency and depth after losing three out of their next four games. As they look toward the playoffs, adding a proven scorer could be a beneficial move.
One such name that has emerged in trade speculation is Los Angeles Kings forward Adrian Kempe. With his contract expiring after the 2025-26 season, Kempe’s future in LA has become a hot topic. This raises a natural question about how his situation might influence both the Kings and potential suitors.
Could Adrian Kempe Use His Contract to Gain Leverage Over the Kings?
Kempe, 29, is in the final year of a four-year, $22 million deal with a $5.5 million cap hit. This season, he has played 14 games, scoring 6 goals and 10 assists for 16 points, with a +4 rating. Kempe averages about 20 minutes per game and has been effective at even strength and on the power play. His consistent two-way play makes him one of the Kings’ top forwards.
NHL insider Ryan Dixon explained Kempe’s potential leverage in a Sportsnet column:
“Maybe Tuch doesn’t quite get to that $12-million AAV, but Kempe must know, especially as the crop of potential UFAs narrows, he can command very similar money to what Connor signed for.”
Dixon compared Kempe to Kyle Connor, who signed an eight-year, $96 million deal with the Winnipeg Jets starting in 2026-27 with a $12 million cap hit. This deal sets a benchmark for wingers like Kempe entering free agency.
Dixon added context for the current UFA landscape:
“Each signing seemed to reinforce the notion that, despite a salary cap that’s set to spike substantially in the coming years, we’re not about to see any kind of UFA free-for-all any time soon,
“Teams are using this newfound breathing room to lock up pending UFAs who appear quite content to forgo the possibility of maximum dollars on the open market in exchange for the peace of mind and security that comes with re-upping for eight years.”
So, the limited UFA numbers are the reason why Kempe could have significant leverage over the Kings.
MORE: LA Kings Blueliner Tagged as Collateral Damage In Adrian Kempe Negotiations
For the Oilers, Kempe is an attractive option. They could try to sign him when he becomes a free agent or explore a trade if the Kings don’t extend him. A trade could involve players like Adam Henrique, prospects, and draft picks to make the cap work.
Kempe’s scoring, consistency, and experience give him real leverage. If the Kings and Kempe cannot agree on a deal, the Oilers could benefit by adding a proven forward who can contribute immediately. His situation shows how top UFA wingers can influence team strategies and player markets.
