CHICAGO HOCKEY INSIDER | NHL TEAM | CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS

Kings and Blackhawks emerging as unexpected trade partners with veteran forward in the Mix

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Sam Walker
December 20, 2025 (2:00 PM)

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Something's brewing in the NHL trade market, and the Los Angeles Kings, Chicago Blackhawks, and Toronto Maple Leafs are suddenly in the thick of it with scoring winger interest and roster flexibility rattling around the rumor mill. The Kings recently had three scouts in attendance at the Leafs-Blackhawks clash, a sign they're actively profiling potential targets.

Los Angeles has struggled offensively this season, scoring among the fewest goals in the league and desperately needing a finishing touch to boost their top six.

The presence of multiple pro scouts watching both the Leafs and Blackhawks suggests the Kings are serious about finding a scoring winger who can slot into their forward group. They've also scouted outside the Central Division in recent weeks, including reports linking them to players on the Flyers.

Los Angeles Kings, Chicago Blackhawks trade fit

On Chicago's side, the Blackhawks sit in a rebuild phase, and several veterans are starting to get checked off by other teams. One forward who keeps popping up in rumor circles is Jason Dickinson.

The 30-year-old center was a first-round pick (29th overall) and has experience as a reliable two-way player and locker-room presence for Chicago.

While he isn't the high-end scorer the Kings are explicitly said to be targeting, Dickinson's combination of cap flexibility and steady play has attracted interest from multiple clubs ahead of the trade deadline.

Chicago's open rebuild means they could pivot toward futures and cap relief if the right offers come. Meanwhile, Los Angeles' need for scoring creates a natural trade partner dynamic. The Maple Leafs are also in the mix as sellers or buyers depending on their own cap and performance trajectory, adding another twist to potential deadline wheeling and dealing.

Whether the Kings ultimately find their next winger in Chicago or elsewhere, the fact that they're actively scouting the Hawks' games means these two franchises aren't just casual observers this trade season-they're key participants shaping who moves where. Expect more teams to circle as the deadline nears and score-boosting wingers remain at a premium.

Previously on Chicago Hockey Insider

Blackhawks welcome back 25 cup-winning alumni members on January 17

Blackhawks look for answers vs. the Senators on Saturday with new projected lines

Ex-Blackhawk Brandon Hagel lands on injured reserve after Seth Jones hit

POLL
DECEMBRE 20 \| 78 ANSWERS Kings and Blackhawks emerging as unexpected trade partners with veteran forward in the Mix Do you think the Chicago Blackhawks would be making a mistake trading away this veteran forward?
Yes	43	55.1 %
No	35	44.9 %
List of polls

Kings and Blackhawks emerging as unexpected trade partners with veteran forward in the Mix

Los Angeles Kings, Chicago Blackhawks trade fit

Do you think the Chicago Blackhawks would be making a mistake trading away this veteran forward?