Joel Edmundson moves to Los Angeles to pursue the bag after leaving Maple Leafs

The contract, a robust four-year agreement, promises Edmundson a yearly sum of $3.8 million.

As the NHL free agency window swings wide open, teams are aggressively securing talent, and the Kings' acquisition of Edmundson is a testament to their strategic planning. The defenseman, known for his robust defensive play, joins the Kings following a brief stint with the Maple Leafs, where he played nine regular-season games without scoring a point but contributed positively in other areas.

Notably, Edmundson maintained a plus-3 rating, averaged 17:48 in time on ice (TOI) per game, and was effective defensively, registering 16 shot blocks and 21 hits. His postseason performance was equally gritty, delivering 22 hits and blocking 12 shots over seven games.

Traded to Toronto from the Washington Capitals ahead of the last trade deadline, the Leafs had given up a third-round pick for 2024 and a fifth-round pick for 2025, while also retaining half of Edmundson's salary. His move to the Kings is not just a transfer but a significant addition to a team seeking to bolster its defense after losing Matt Roy to the Capitals.

With over 530 NHL games to his credit, Edmundson brings not just experience but a career highlighted by 110 points, an average TOI of 18:30, 1000 hits, and 838 blocked shots. This resume speaks volumes of his ability to contribute both defensively and as a leader.

On the other side, the Maple Leafs are not standing by idly. Earlier today, they responded to their defensive needs by signing Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson, moves that are set to reshape their backline. With these signings and potential future acquisitions, Toronto is poised to address any gaps left by Edmundson's departure.

As Edmundson prepares to don the Kings' jersey, both his new team and his former squad are adjusting to changes that could redefine their strategies and effectiveness in the coming seasons. The Kings gain a seasoned player known for his defensive toughness, while the Maple Leafs continue to adapt and strengthen their roster in pursuit of NHL success.

Source for stats: hockey-reference
Joel Edmundson