DUBOIS DEALT (FINALLY!) TO LA
The Los Angeles Kings acquired center Pierre-Luc Dubois from the Winnipeg Jets for forward Gabriel Vilardi, winger Alex Iafallo, forward Rasmus Kupari and a second-round draft pick in 2024.
What does it give the Los Angeles Kings
This deal has been in the works for some time now. While many felt Dubois preferred to be traded to Montreal, it is the Kings' package that appealed to Winnipeg the most. Dubois signed an eight-year contract extension for a cap hit of $8.5 million/year with the Jets to accommodate this sign-and-trade move. Dubois will slide into the No. 2 center role in LA, ahead of Phillip Danault and behind captain Anze Kopitar. He is expected to take over for the latter whenever Kopitar decides to hang up his skates.
What does it give the Winnipeg Jets
The Jets did very well in what seemed like a no-win situation with Dubois. They essentially got back an entire line in Iafallo, Vilardi and Kupari (whether they end up playing together or not). They also get a future second-rounder and are finally rid of the headache that was Dubois for a very lengthy time. Coach Rick Bowness should be able to get a lot out of two-way forwards like Iafallo and Kupari, while Vilardi will definitely help replace some of the missing offense from Dubois' departure–among others.
Fantasy impact
Dubois' fantasy value remains steady after the move to LA. He should have good linemates to play with, but he is also entering a situation with far more pressure to perform after signing his new big contract. Still, draft him with confidence. Vilardi is the big winner after this trade, as he might become the focal point of Winnipeg's offense in 2023-24. He has breakout potential. Kupari also has untapped upside and could be a great sleeper in '23-24. Iafallo's value remains stable. He is not a great fantasy option, but he also will not hurt teams.
