Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY
At several points during the 2014-15 season I wrote it was a near lock the Los Angeles Kings would re-sign 2014 Conn Smythe winner Justin Williams and ensure the winger ends his career in L.A. With the reigning champs now eliminated from the postseason before it even begins, look for the end of the marriage between Williams and the Kings as the two sides go in different directions.
I’m not saying there’s a zero percent chance Williams returns to the Kings, as there are nearly three months until the start of free agency and the two sides could strike a deal if the interest is there. Having said that, so much has changed since the season began as the Kings became the first reigning champion in almost decade to miss out on the playoffs. And with a summer of tough salary cap decisions ahead, Williams will likely be one of the players not brought back as the Kings look to use missing the playoffs as a reason to overhaul. Young players such as Tyler Toffoli will need new deals, and suffice is to say Anze Kopitar will be looking to break the bank with his new contract after next season putting salary cap room at a premium.
Williams will likely get a lucrative contract offer from an up-and-coming team like the Columbus Blue Jackets that would greatly covet his veteran experience and winning resume as they look to teach their younger players how to win. Look for the split to be as amicable as can be expected given the circumstances and Williams to be given a standing ovation when he plays his first game at Staples Center next season. After two Stanley Cups and countless great individual moments, it’s the least the fans can do for a player who simply became a victim of the ugly business side of pro sports.
