Re-signing the defenseman was a top priority for both the Kings’ former and new GM, and his exit leaves the team with a big defensive hole.

The New York Rangers signed Vladislav Gavrikov — considered the top defensive free agent available after three seasons with the Kings — to a seven-year contract.

The frenzy of multiple signings when NHL free agency opened Tuesday was tempered by a free agent class thinned by teams making pre-emptive moves to keep top talent.