The Los Angeles Kings have wasted little time at the start of the NHL’s free agency period, making a series of signings to help break a frustrating streak of four straight first-round playoff exits.
With longtime stalwart Drew Doughty and captain Anze Kopitar – both remaining from the Kings’ 2014 Stanley Cup win – still leading the way, the team hopes these moves can set the stage for a deeper postseason run before the two veterans ride off into the sunset.
Among the biggest additions is defenseman Cody Ceci, who joins the Kings after splitting the 2024–25 season between the San Jose Sharks and Dallas Stars. The deal, which carries a $4.5 million cap hit over four years, has already sparked debate among fans and analysts alike.
New Kings general manager Ken Holland, previously in charge of the Edmonton Oilers from 2019 to 2024, is behind the move. While some see Ceci as a valuable addition, others question the contract’s value, especially in the eyes of former NHL defenseman and current insider Carlo Colaiacovo.
NHL Insider Carlo Colaiacovo Criticizes Ceci Contract
Ceci’s four-year, $4.5 million cap hit with the Kings is one of the most talked-about signings of this year’s free agency. Colaiacovo did not hold back, calling it the “worst” contract handed out on day one. His comments quickly spread through social media, drawing mixed reactions from fans and observers.
One fan agreed with Colaiacovo’s assessment, saying, “That guy hasn’t been good enough to be a NHL Dman for 5 years, how does he keep doing this haha.”
That guy hasn’t been good enough to be a NHL Dman for 5 years, how does he keep doing this haha
— Tyler (@sasksportsguy85) July 1, 2025
Another supporter, however, countered, “hands down you haven’t watched any western conference hockey, he’s been a steady dependable D player for a couple of years, and in fact the Oilers really missed him.”
hands down you haven’t watched any western conference hockey, he’s been a steady dependable D player for a couple of years, and in fact the Oilers really missed him
— RV (@Ipryde11) July 1, 2025
Ceci’s journey to the Kings has been eventful. He spent time with the Oilers before being traded to San Jose in August 2024 for Ty Emberson. After 54 games with the Sharks, he moved on to Dallas.
Despite the change of scenery, Ceci’s steady presence on the blue line was noticeable, and he helped the Stars advance through the playoffs, defeating the Colorado Avalanche and Winnipeg Jets before falling to his former team, the Oilers, in the Western Conference Final.
It’s worth noting that Ceci was not on the Oilers’ roster for their run to the 2025 Stanley Cup Final, as he had already been traded to San Jose the previous summer. Still, his experience in both conferences, and with multiple teams, makes him a versatile addition for the Kings.
Originally drafted 15th overall by the Ottawa Senators in 2012, Ceci has also suited up for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Pittsburgh Penguins.
Hands down the worst contract signed today https://t.co/5LrX4TDntn
— Carlo Colaiacovo (@CarloColaiacovo) July 1, 2025
Over 871 regular-season games, he has tallied 52 goals and 183 assists, and in 88 playoff appearances, he has contributed four goals and 15 assists. With this track record, and the Kings’ need for defensive stability, Ceci’s arrival is seen as a calculated gamble – one that could pay off if he helps the team break its recent playoff curse.
