Viktor Arvidsson traded to the Los Angeles Kings

The first trade of the 2021 NHL Offseason has occurred as the Nashville Predators have traded forward Viktor Arvidsson to the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for a 2021 2nd round pick (40th overall) and a 2022 3rd round pick. This trade was a bit unexpected for both sides as even though the Kings were rumored to be looking for a winger, Arvidsson wasn’t a name that popped up in rumors. On the other side, it was surprising for the Predators to trade one of their best forwards under contract.

The 28-year-old, Swedish winger was coming off of a disappointing season but a large part of his downfall came due to the Predators scoring struggles and lack of offensive power. Just two seasons prior, Arvidsson had the best statistical season of his career, with 34 goals and 48 points in 58 games, which would have been on pace for 48 goals and 69 points if he played 82 games. Arvidsson’s recent scoring struggles may have led to his trade value falling, but he can easily rebound back on a young Los Angeles Kings’ team.

The suspected reason the Predators decided to trade Arvidsson was to clear up a spot for the expansion draft. The Predators are expected to use the 4-4-1 protection option where they will protect Filip Forsberg, Colton Sissons, Calle Jarnkrok, Matt Duchene, Roman Josi, Ryan Ellis, Mattias Ekholm, Dante Fabbro, and Juuse Saros. Trading Arvidsson gave the Predators more flexibility on who they could protect.

Now looking at the trade from Los Angeles’ side, the Kings desperately needed help on the wing. As of now, the only top 6 winger they have is Alex Iafallo. Adding Arvidsson to the top 6 will give the Kings’ much-needed scoring and depth while also helping the Kings’ young centers develop. The Kings have been in recent rumors about top 6 centers such as Vladamir Tarasenko and Sam Reinhart, but getting Arvidsson is a great option as well for a great price. The Kings only had to give up a 2nd and 3rd round pick for Arvidsson which is a steal based on his past production, contract, and age. 

Overall, this trade did make sense for both teams as the Predators are adding picks for their inevitable rebuild while the Kings are adding to their top 6 and are looking to compete soon. But based on the fact the Predators could get more for Arvidsson, the Kings are the clear winners of the trade.