Is Adrian Kempe worth $85 million? The Los Angeles Kings are betting he is, and that's a HUGE commitment! Get ready for some long-term stability, Kings fans, because it looks like one of your key players is staying put for a long time.
According to reliable hockey insider Elliotte Friedman of SportsNet, the LA Kings are on the verge of finalizing a massive eight-year contract extension with star forward Adrian Kempe. This isn't just a short-term deal; this is a long-term commitment to a player the Kings clearly see as vital to their future success. And with an annual average value (AAV) of $10.625 million, totaling a whopping $85 million over the life of the contract, it's clear they're putting their money where their mouth is.
But here’s where it gets controversial... is Kempe really worth that kind of money? Some fans might argue that's a hefty price tag, even for a player of Kempe's caliber. Let's dive deeper.
Adrian Kempe, the 29-year-old Swedish winger, has become a cornerstone of the Kings' offensive attack, consistently delivering high-end production. Over the past three seasons, he's solidified his role, racking up at least 67 points each year. What's more, he brings a valuable two-way element to his game – he's not just about scoring; he contributes defensively as well. Think of him as a reliable player that can be used in most situations.
Drafted 29th overall in the first round of the 2014 NHL Draft, Kempe initially broke into the league in the 2016-17 season. He gradually developed into a dependable depth player before experiencing a significant offensive breakout in recent years. He's been on a steady upward trajectory, improving his offensive output year after year.
Last season, Kempe tallied an impressive 73 points in 81 games, building upon a career-best 75-point performance in 77 games the year before. These numbers demonstrate his consistent offensive contributions and his ability to perform at a high level over an entire season.
And this is the part most people miss... Kempe also seems to elevate his game when the stakes are highest. Despite the Kings' recent playoff struggles against the Edmonton Oilers, Kempe has consistently been a standout performer, amassing 29 points in 24 playoff games. This suggests he thrives under pressure and can be a difference-maker when it matters most. Some might even say he is their most important player in the playoffs!
Kempe's extension aligns with a broader trend in the NHL, where teams are prioritizing locking up their star players long-term to avoid losing them to free agency. Other notable players like Connor McDavid, Jack Eichel, Kirill Kaprizov, and Martin Necas have all signed similar massive deals, reflecting the increasing value placed on elite talent in today's NHL. Before this deal, Kempe was considered one of the top potential free agent forwards, making him a prime target for other teams. The Kings clearly didn't want to risk losing him.
Kempe is having a strong start to the current season, contributing 19 points in the first 19 games. His performance has helped the Kings surge to the top of the Pacific Division with a 10-5-4 record and a four-game winning streak. So far, the investment seems to be paying off.
Ultimately, the Kings' decision to sign Kempe to this lengthy and lucrative extension represents a significant investment in their future. It's a clear statement that they believe he is a foundational player who can help them compete for championships for years to come. But is it the right move? Only time will tell.
What do you think, Kings fans? Is Adrian Kempe worth $85 million? Is this a smart move by the Kings, or are they overpaying? Should they have explored other options? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
