Report: Lucic would be 'warm' to receiving free-agent offer from Oilers
Milan Lucic may have identified a Plan B.
ESPN's Pierre LeBrun reported Friday on "Insider Trading" that he believes the pending unrestricted free agent would be "warm" to receiving an offer from the Edmonton Oilers, should he be unable to iron out a deal to return to the Los Angeles Kings.
The hulking winger has long stated his desire to return to Los Angeles after an enjoyable debut season with the club, but there would be some familiarity and comfort in Edmonton, as well. Lucic was drafted by and negotiated multiple contracts with Oilers GM Peter Chiarelli during their long tenure together with the Boston Bruins.
LeBrun reiterated his belief that the power forward's overriding preference is to remain a King, but mentioned: "There are worse things than riding shotgun for Connor McDavid."
Lucic, who will enter his 10th season this fall, recorded 20 goals and 55 points in 81 games with L.A. He was highly successful within the club's top six, finishing with a 61.4 percent Goals For rate at even strength.
LeBrun also noted that Lucic's hometown club, the Vancouver Canucks, would be interested in investing in his services.