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Kings’ Ryan Smyth wants to be traded back to Edmonton

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Kings left wing Ryan Smyth, among the most productive players on a low-scoring team last season, wants to be traded back to the Edmonton Oilers and the Kings have tried to oblige him.

A person with knowledge of the situation but not authorized to comment publicly confirmed that Smyth, citing his family’s best interests and preference for the city where he began his career, had his agent talk to Kings General Manager Dean Lombardi about a trade. Lombardi discussed scenarios with the Oilers but talks have dragged.

Lombardi confirmed he had spoken to Smyth. “But I would like to keep those discussions private,” Lombardi said Monday.

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Smyth’s agent, Don Meehan, did not respond to several emails.

Smyth, 35, has a year left on his contract at a salary of $4.5 million but a salary cap hit of $6.25 million. He ranked third on the Kings last season with 23 goals and fourth in points with 47 and scored a team-leading nine power-play goals in 82 games.

His departure would deplete the left side — Kyle Clifford was the Kings’ second-highest scoring left wing with seven goals — but would clear cap space for a significant free-agent signing or trade and create openings for youngsters. It’s believed the Kings would take a mid-range draft pick for Smyth, who played his 1,000th career game early last season.

Smyth’s request was first reported by Bob McKenzie of TSN.ca.

Lombardi is also negotiating with Meehan on a new contract for franchise defenseman Drew Doughty, who can become a restricted free agent July 1. Lombardi visited Meehan’s Toronto office twice and was blistered both times. Lombardi said he had made “a series of offers,” and should have a better idea where things stand later this week.

helene.elliott@latimes.com

twitter.com/helenenothelen

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