Kings Sign Free Agent Forward Alexei Ponikarovsky

Just hours after losing Alexander Frolov to the New York Rangers, the Los Angeles Kings found his replacement by signing left wing Alexei Ponikarovsky to a one-year contract worth $3.2 million. In 77 games last season with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Pittsburgh Penguins, he had 21 goals and 29 assists for 50 points. He added one goal and four assists in 11 playoff games with the Penguins. This is an interesting signing for the Kings, as they paid a little bit more to land Ponikarovsky, who is definitely not as good offensively as Frolov. Sure, Ponikarovsky has some offensive ability and is a capable two-way forward, but the Kings probably would have been better off retaining Frolov. However, after losing Frolov, Ponikarovsky was probably one of the most suitable left wings left on the free agent market to fill Frolov's place, so this signing works for the Kings.