The Los Angeles Kings are bolstering their roster with veteran forwards Mats Zuccarello and Corey Perry, signing both to one-year contracts. This move comes after the team lost captain Anze Kopitar to retirement and signals a clear push for experienced talent to fill the leadership void.

Zuccarello, 38, joins his fourth NHL organization after the Minnesota Wild let him walk in free agency. He posted 15 goals and 54 points last season while anchoring the Wild's top power-play unit, averaging 18:21 time on ice in the playoffs despite injury limitations. His previous two-year deal carried a $4.12 million salary cap hit.

Perry, 41, returns to Los Angeles after beginning last season with the Kings before Tampa Bay acquired him at the trade deadline. He combined for 17 goals and 20 assists between both teams but was held pointless during the Lightning's first-round exit. Perry brings 465 career goals across 1,464 games since being drafted by Anaheim.

The Kings are doubling down on veteran presence, also adding Erik Haula and Erik Gustafsson while transitioning under new coach Peter Laviolette. This strategy suggests management believes seasoned players can bridge the gap until younger talent develops.