Rumor: Montreal Canadiens Free Agent Phillip Danault Heading West

The Montreal Canadiens are expected to be moving on from center Phillip Danault after a season where the defensive minded forward broke out and showed off his true colors. There's a ton of interest in signing the free-agent-to-be and one team to keep an eye on, the Los Angeles Kings.

Last season the 28-year-old enjoyed a fine season with 24 points in 53 games but it was in the Stanley Cup Playoffs where he proved his worth. He was integral in shutting down Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Matthews gave him huge praise after their first round series. Danault's tough to play against and loves playing the shadow to the other team's best players. He carried his strong play on with him all the way to the Cup Final.

As for the Kings, they could use Danault behind Anze Kopitar as they have huge needs up front, which they are looking to continue to address this offseason. The Quebec native is coming off a season where he made just over $3 million and is likely heading towards the $4.5 million mark in free agency.

If the Kings don't sign Danault on Wednesday, expect to see the Columbus Blue Jackets, Minnesota Wild and Calgary Flames all make contract offers.