January 13, 2008
Blake expected to be moved by deadline TheFourthPeriod.com
Veteran defenseman Rob Blake isn't expected to finish the season with the Los Angeles Kings and could be moved in the coming weeks.
Blake, who would have to approve a move due to his no-trade clause, will be dealt by the Feb. 26 trade deadline, a Los Angeles-based source told TFP.
"Blake will definitely be dealt by the [trade] deadline," the source said.
With roughly seven weeks before the Feb. 26 trade deadline, the Kings will receive plenty of interest from Stanley Cup contenders inquiring about Blake's services.
Last month, Blake told the Denver Post he would consider a trade to another team. The 38-year-old is in the final year of a two-year contract that pays him $6 million this season.
In addition to Blake, the Kings could also deal forwards Ladislav Nagy and Scott Thornton, and defensemen Brad Stuart and Jaroslav Modry over the next few weeks.
A Cup contender would pay a decent price to get their hands on a player of Blake's calibre and experience. The 17-year-old has been around the block and would add value to any team. In return, the Kings would acquire a high draft pick and a solid young defensive-prospect or NHL-ready player. While no deal is believed to be imminent, it appears Blake will be sporting a new uniform over the next month.
