If Kovalchuk can produce like he has away from LA, I wonder how much gas a guy like Carter has left in the tank if he were playing meaningful hockey? His contract isn't crazy either - $5,272,727 for two more years after this season. If the Kings retained $1,272,727 (about 25%), you'd have Carter for two years at $4 million. And no, he isn't retiring.
Hell, here's an idea.
To Pittsburgh: Jeff Carter (50% retained, $2,636,363)
To Los Angeles: 2021 2nd round pick, 2020 3rd round pick
Pittsburgh gets Carter as their 3C, and he can easily slot up next to Malkin or Crosby on the wing if need be.