Kings Re-Sign C Brad Richardson

The Los Angeles Kings have avoided arbitration with veteran forward Brad Richardson, re-signing him to a two-year, $2.35 million deal, the Associated Press notes.

Richardson, 26, played in 68 games for the Kings in 2010-11, tallying seven goals and 12 assists. He only averaged about 12 minutes per game of ice time, often in the penalty kill. He played 81 games in 2009-10, scoring 27 points.

He will make $1 million in 2011-12 (a small raise on his $900,000 2010-11 salary) and $1.35 million in 2012-13. 

It's possible that the Kings will now focus on striking a deal with Drew Doughty, the only key restricted free agent they have left, although the two sides have not spoken recently. ESPN Los Angeles notes that Doughty might want to wait until Shea Weber reaches a new deal with the Nashville Predators, thus establishing a price range for a defender like Doughty.

For more on the L.A. Kings, check out Jewels From The Crown.