Kings Sign Erik Haula to a 2-Year Deal

The move confirms speculation that emerged just before free agency opened. Haula had been flagged as a target for Los Angeles days ago, and it turns out the Kings’ interest in the 35-year-old dates back even further. Los Angeles had actually pursued Haula ahead of fellow free-agent center Scott Laughton, but couldn’t complete a deal at the time because Haula was injured — something that didn’t dampen the club’s evaluation of him.

The signing addresses a real organizational need. With Anze Kopitar’s retirement this offseason, the Kings were short on experienced pivots, and Haula brings 14 years of NHL mileage across seven franchises, including a strong two-way reputation and 840 games of regular-season and playoff experience.

He posted 14 goals and 38 points in 81 games with Nashville last season and represented Finland at the 2026 Winter Olympics, helping the team to a bronze medal.

For new head coach Peter Laviolette, Haula slots in as exactly the kind of reliable, low-maintenance depth piece a retooling middle six needs — at a price that leaves the Kings plenty of room to keep addressing other needs as free agency rolls on.

There is also talk that Mats Zuccarello might be joining the Kings.