After extending Austin Wagner on Tuesday, the Los Angeles Kings followed it up by extending winger Carl Grundstrom as well. Grundstrom, an RFA, signed a two-year deal with an annual average of $725,000. The first year of the contract is a two-way deal while the second year is one-way.
Los Angeles Kings Extend Carl Grundstrom
Rob Blake doing work. Pending RFA Carl Grundstrom agrees to two-year deal at 725K AAV. Two way deal first year, one way second year.
— Dennis Bernstein (@DennisTFP) September 1, 2020
Grundstrom’s Playstyle
Carl Grundstrom’s playstyle is very reminiscent of Dustin Brown. He plays hard on the puck and will do the dirty work. A very impressive aspect of Grundstrom’s play is his ability to fill almost any role on a line. He can be the grinder and go into corners, lay down hits, and chase pucks deep in the zone. On the power play, you can expect him to be a net-front presence and create traffic.
Grundstrom can also be a very good complimentary finisher. One of Grundstrom’s best attributes is his shot. He shoots hard and accurate, and with a good playmaker on his line, he can finish off most good passes in high danger areas.
As far as skating goes, it isn’t necessarily a strength of Grundstrom’s, but it’s definitely not a weakness. His top speed isn’t blazing fast, but his first few steps are very strong and he can reach his top speed quickly.
Big Season Ahead For Grundstrom
Grundstrom, who the Kings acquired in the Jake Muzzin trade, finished third in scoring last season for the Ontario Reign. He put up 12 goals and 16 assists for 28 points in 40 games. He also tied Blaine Byron for second place on the team in goals.
After a big 2019–20, Grundstrom should look to have an even bigger 2020–21 season. Still only 22, he’s made big steps in his development and should be ready for a full-time NHL role. He will look to not only make the Kings roster but provide solid secondary scoring for them.
Where He Slots In
Over the 2020–21 season, Grundstrom should end up playing somewhere in the Kings middle six. He’ll likely be centred by one of Gabriel Vilardi or Blake Lizotte. He should see time on both the second and third lines depending on how he plays. Don’t be shocked if he gets a little power play time as well. With the Kings decided to extend him, Carl Grundstrom has the potential to add a much-needed spark to their offence this season.
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