The LA Kings concluded the 2025 NHL Draft by selecting nine players over the course of seven rounds. However, the team faced a significant setback on their defense as they traded Jordan Spence to the Ottawa Senators in exchange for two draft picks. General manager Ken Holland indicated that Spence sought more ice time, which the Kings were unable to grant with established players like Drew Doughty and Brandt Clarke ahead of him on the depth chart.
As the Kings move forward, they now face the challenge of filling the void left by Spence in their defensive lineup. It seems unlikely that they will pursue a top free agent to address this need. Instead, they may look to less prominent options in the free agency market.
One player who could emerge as a candidate is Cody Ceci. Although he may not inspire overwhelming confidence among fans, he appears to be a probable option to replace Spence. Ceci previously played under Holland during his time with the Edmonton Oilers, participating in 237 regular-season games and averaging around 20 minutes of ice time each game. Standing at 6’3″, Ceci adds physicality to the Kings’ third defensive pair, although he has faced criticism for his playoff performance, particularly when he was with the Dallas Stars.
While Spence undeniably offers more skill than Ceci, the Kings might view Ceci as a fitting solution for their current needs in defense. Given the fast-paced nature of the NHL and the continual need for team adjustments, this could be an opportunity for both Ceci and the Kings to revitalize their careers as they reconfigure their lineup. This shift may ultimately lead to a stronger performance during the upcoming season. It’s a moment of transition, and with the right moves, the Kings could emerge even more competitive.