LOS ANGELES (AP) — Forward Adrian Kempe has agreed to an eight-year, $85 million contract to remain with the Los Angeles Kings, a person with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press.
The individual spoke on condition of anonymity Sunday because the Kings had not yet announced the deal with the 29-year-old Kempe, who would have been an unrestricted free agent next summer. The contract extends through the 2033-34 season and carries an average annual value (AAV) of $10.625 million.
Kempe has been the Kings’ most dependable offensive player over the past four seasons. He earned an All-Star selection in 2022 and helped lead Los Angeles to four straight playoff appearances. The Swedish right wing has scored 200 goals and contributed 220 assists during his 10-year career, which he has spent entirely with the Kings. Los Angeles drafted him with the 29th overall pick in 2014.
During the 2022-23 season, Kempe scored a career-high 41 goals and has recorded four consecutive 25-goal seasons. This season, he leads the Kings with six goals and 13 assists in 19 games while playing extensively on special teams. Additionally, Kempe is named to Sweden’s initial roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Re-signing Kempe was a top priority for new Kings general manager Ken Holland, who emphasized the importance of maintaining a foundation of leadership and talent as longtime captain Anze Kopitar plans to retire next year. However, negotiations between the Kings and Kempe stretched from the summer into the current season, sparking speculation that he might enter free agency next year.
Instead, Kempe joins a growing list of notable players who were potential 2026 free agents but have recently re-signed with their teams. Connor McDavid, Martin Necas, Jack Eichel, and Kirill Kaprizov have all committed to their respective organizations in the past two months.
The Kings, currently holding a 10-5-4 record, have rebounded from a slow start this season. They are on a six-game road trip and have won four consecutive games. Los Angeles is set to play against the Washington Capitals on Monday.