The Los Angeles Kings announced today that they have signed defenseman Brandt Clarke to a five‑year contract worth $7.4 million per season, a deal that locks the 23‑year‑old into the franchise through the 2028‑29 campaign.
Clarke’s breakout year saw him appear in all 82 games, setting personal bests with 15 goals, 25 assists and 40 points while also leading the team’s blue‑liners with 185 blocked shots, a figure that placed him third league‑wide among defensemen.
A Milestone Season for a Young Blue‑Liner
Drafted eighth overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, Clarke quickly rose through the Kings’ system, spending parts of two seasons with the Ontario Reign of the AHL before earning a permanent spot on the NHL roster. In his first full NHL season he posted 33 points in 78 games and made his Stanley Cup Playoff debut, underscoring his rapid development.
Prior to turning professional, Clarke starred for the Barrie Colts of the OHL, where he accumulated 158 points over three seasons and was named the league’s top rookie defenseman, finishing second in goals among first‑year players. He also represented Canada on the international stage, capturing gold at the 2023 Men’s World Junior Championship and the 2021 Under‑18 World Junior Championship.
The contract not only rewards Clarke’s on‑ice contributions but also signals the Kings’ intent to build around a defensive core that includes veteran Drew Doughty. General manager Rob Blake praised Clarke’s “elite work ethic and ability to contribute offensively while anchoring the blue line.”
With the new deal in place, Los Angeles looks to capitalize on Clarke’s blend of size, skating and shot‑blocking prowess as it aims for a deep playoff run. The move reflects a broader strategy that blends home‑grown talent with seasoned veterans to sustain competitiveness in the Western Conference.