Ken Holland Emerges as Candidate for L.A. Kings GM Position

Los Angeles, CA – Former Edmonton Oilers general manager Ken Holland is reportedly a candidate for the vacant general manager position with the L.A. Kings. Sportsnet analyst Elliotte Friedman mentioned that Holland’s name has started to surface in discussions surrounding this role.

Holland, 69, previously held the position of general manager and president of hockey operations for the Oilers from 2019 to 2024. During his tenure, he led the Oilers to the Stanley Cup Final in 2023, where they faced the Florida Panthers in the championship series. The Kings parted ways with their president and GM, Rob Blake, earlier this month after they were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year.

According to Friedman, “If the Kings decide to look outside for a new GM, Holland may be a strong candidate.” He added that Holland was also in consideration for the New York Islanders’ GM position, indicating that his experience remains highly valued in the league.

Holland’s successful career spans over two decades as the general manager of the Detroit Red Wings, where he won three Stanley Cups in 1998, 2002, and 2008. Since leaving the Oilers, he has taken a consulting role with the NHL‘s hockey operations.

While the Kings are now faced with a significant opportunity to rebuild their front office, they will be looking for someone with a proven track record to guide them through the upcoming NHL Entry Draft and free agency. Holland’s expertise could play a vital role in revitalizing the team’s competitive edge in the league.

As the Kings continue to navigate this transitional phase, a decision regarding the general manager position is expected soon. Holland’s vast experience in the league positions him as a key figure in their pursuit of improvement.