Tsyplakov Traded to Sabres

Responding to his request, the Kings traded winger Vladimir Tsyplakov to the Buffalo Sabres on Monday for an eighth-round draft choice.

Tsyplakov, scratched Sunday for the 17th time this season, can be an unrestricted free agent after the season. If the Sabres re-sign him, the draft choice improves to what Dave Taylor, the King senior vice president and general manager, called a mid-round choice.

Tsyplakov and agent Larry Kelly approached Taylor about a trade recently.

“Taylor was first-class about the whole thing,” Kelly said. “We told him [Tsyplakov] has no interest in simply being around as insurance, and that it would make sense to get something for him now rather than nothing for him later [as a free agent].”

Tsyplakov had been one of the most versatile King forwards, subbing at various times for Luc Robitaille, Ziggy Palffy, Glen Murray and Donald Audette when they were injured, and taking an occasional turn with a checking line, though physical play is not his forte.

Tsyplakov has six goals and seven assists in 29 games.

The move leaves the Kings at 22 players, one short of the NHL limit. That roster spot is expected to be filled by Audette.

*

The King power play showed the impact of Stumpel’s return Sunday, with two goals in five opportunities.

“It’s funny about that,” Coach Andy Murray said. “We either get 50% or close to it on the power play or we struggle. “

The Kings are among the league leaders at 18.8% efficiency.