After 16 games, Pierre-Luc Dubois’ effort is criticized in Los Angeles

The Pierre-Luc Dubois case was the most talked-about in the National Hockey League this summer.

And I don’t think it’s really necessary to go into all the details of this rather ridiculous story.

The Quebecer now finds himself in Los Angeles, with a club that has the talent to go all the way. The Kings went after him because they believed Dubois would add raw talent and depth to the center position, which makes sense because the player has some superb qualities in his tool bag.

But those qualities only come into play when Dubois wants to give it his all… and that’s where the problem lies.

His inconsistency was criticized in the past, when he played for the Blue Jackets and the Jets. Things are no different now that he’s wearing the Kings’ colors.

Helene Elliott, a journalist who covers sports in Los Angeles, threw him under the bus because of the lack of effort Dubois has shown since the start of the season:

He should feel more urgency after getting the trade he wanted – again – and landing with a team that has big playoff aspirations. – Helene Elliott

Pierre-Luc Dubois has nine points (five goals) in sixteen games this season with his new team.

We’re talking about “decent” production, but nothing more… Especially considering that the Quebecer earns a salary of $8.5 million per year.

But points aren’t important if the player gives the required effort every other game. Dubois has everything it takes to be useful to his team: he’s big, he’s got great offensive qualities and he can be responsible on the ice defensively.

Things had better start looking up for Dubois and the Kings, because Rob Blake (GM) could start losing hair pretty quickly.

Alex Iafallo, who was acquired by the Jets in the deal, is used for everything in Winnipeg because he does things the right way. The former Kings forward is enjoying his best offensive season ever (13 points in 17 games), and Gabriel Vilardi has played just three games so far for the Jets, who have a 10-5-2 record since the start of the campaign.

It’s too early to come to a conclusion, but right now, it looks like the Jets have won the trade.

Breaking news

– He looks huge on the ice.

Jayden#GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/XBwaF9ZzDF

– Montreal Canadiens (@CanadiensMTL) November 20, 2023

– Looking good.

– He’s going to cash in.

What’s a fair contract for William Nylander?
That’s the exact question I asked a dozen rival NHL front office executives. Their answers were rather interesting.
My latest for @TheAthletichttps://t.co/F4fMXkfqdo

– Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) November 20, 2023

– The Hurricanes have released Jaroslav Halak.

– A thing of beauty.