The Los Angeles Kings have re-signed forward Andrei Kuzmenko to a one-year contract with an average annual value (AAV) of $4.3 million. The 29-year-old Kuzmenko, who was set to become a free agent, will remain with the Kings through the 2025-26 season.

Kuzmenko joined the Kings on March 7, 2025, after being acquired in a trade with the Philadelphia Flyers. Prior to that, he had been traded to the Flyers by the Calgary Flames. In 22 regular-season games with the Kings, Kuzmenko made a significant impact, showcasing his offensive abilities. He also contributed three goals and six points in six playoff games as the Kings were eliminated in the first round by the Edmonton Oilers.

Originally signed by the Vancouver Canucks as an undrafted free agent in 2022, Kuzmenko has accumulated 72 goals and 157 points in 219 career games across stints with the Canucks, Flames, Flyers, and Kings. Before coming to the NHL, Kuzmenko played in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), making his debut with CSKA Moscow in the 2014-15 season. He later played for SKA Saint Petersburg, where he led the team in scoring during the 2021-22 season.

The decision to re-sign Kuzmenko reflects the mutual interest between the player and the Kings organization. The one-year deal presents a "prove it" opportunity for Kuzmenko, allowing him to demonstrate his consistency and potentially secure a longer-term contract in the future. For the Kings, the contract provides a manageable cap hit while retaining a player who fit well with the team.

Kings General Manager Ken Holland acknowledged the importance of Kuzmenko's relationship with coach Jim Hiller and the coaching staff in his decision to stay in Los Angeles. Kuzmenko's strong performance alongside Anze Kopitar and Adrian Kempe on the top line suggests that the trio could be reunited when training camp begins. With this move, the Kings have solidified their top-six forward group.