According to a source who has knowledge of ESPN’s website, the sports giant is one of several thought to be front-runners to acquire a blockbuster rumor involving potentially-disgruntled Kings forward Alexander Frolov. While the specifics of the potential rumor are not known, speculation is that it could involve Frolov and one or more Kings assets — conventional wisdom points to Jack Johnson — as well as former first round picks Jonathan Bernier, Thomas Hickey and Colten Teubert, three blue-chip prospects widely known to be coveted in previous rumors. Sources say that ESPN is specifically looking only to bring in rumors involving players whose names its subscribers may have actually heard. While only ESPN Insider subscribers have access to the complete rumor, multiple visitors confirm that the rumor names Frolov. Speculation is the rumor will include insinuation that Frolov is unhappy with his role with the Kings. Mention of his pending UFA status and his enigmatic nature would undoubtedly also be involved in any deal with ESPN. It is believed that, were the rumor actually to be acquired by ESPN, another NHL team would be a likely partner.
Calls placed to the Kings were not returned.