If I was LA, I'd do it.

If the Kings trade for a defenseman, it will be with their deep pool of centers. They don't have enough wings to be moving top-6 talent at the position out of the organization. It would just open another large hole in the roster because the kids aren't ready. The goal of the build is to supplement the roster with the kids and let them grow, not force them into positions they aren't ready for.

So while the value might make sense (I'm not clear enough on Girard to REALLY comment on that), the logic for LA doesn't. That's why they say no.

Also, Girard's a good defenseman, but I think the Kings are looking for size on the left side of their blue line. Neither Mikey Anderson or Toby Bjornfot are towering players, so Girard doesn't physically fit what the Kings are looking for. Doesn't mean he won't be considered, just something to take into account.