Edmonton Oilers Rival Signs Cody Ceci to Head-Scratching Deal

Ceci was traded by the Sharks to the Stars in February

The 31-year-old Ceci was on an expiring contract and was traded to the Stars on Feb. 1 in a deal with the San Jose Sharks, along with his teammate Mikael Granlund, in exchange for a first and fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Entry draft.

Ceci delivered important minutes for the Stars down the stretch of the season on the right side of Dallas' blue line. He recorded nine assists in 31 regular-season games, averaging 20:14 of ice time, before also recording three assists in 18 playoff games.

Ceci played in a top-four role next to Esa Lindell for most of his time in Dallas and he was also a very key player on the team's penalty kill.

It was unlikely the Stars would be able to re-sign Ceci given their tight cap situation, which is why he is now a member of the Kings, who had money to spend.

Ceci, a former first-round pick in the 2012 NHL draft, has spent time in Ottawa with the Senators, the rival Toronto Maple Leafs, Pittsburgh, Edmonton, San Jose, and Dallas.

Los Angeles will be the fourth team he's played for since the start of the 2023-24 season, giving him the reputation of a true journeyman.