Kings Celebrate Annual Team Awards, Highlighting Standout Players

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — The Los Angeles Kings announced their annual Team Awards on April 17, 2025, recognizing players for their exceptional performances during the regular season. This year’s awards featured several prominent players, with goaltender Darcy Kuemper receiving top honors as the Most Valuable Player.

Kuemper, who has been instrumental in the Kings’ success, garnered the Bill Libby Memorial Award for Most Valuable Player. In his first season back with the Kings, he posted a 31-11-7 record, notching five shutouts and maintaining a 2.02 goals against average (GAA), which is tied for the lowest in the NHL. His .922 save percentage is second among all netminders with at least 40 games played. Kuemper’s notable performances included back-to-back shutouts against Washington and Nashville in March, earning him the NHL’s “First Star of the Week” accolade.

“Darcy has been our backbone all season,” said Kings head coach Jim Hiller, referring to Kuemper’s significant contributions. “His ability to consistently perform at a high level is key to our defensive strategy.”

Warren Foegele was awarded the Mark Bavis Memorial Award for Best Newcomer, achieving career-highs in several categories, including goals (24) and points (46). Foegele demonstrated reliable two-way play, finishing the regular season with a remarkable plus-36 rating.

“Warren has quickly become a vital member of our team,” Hiller remarked. “His work ethic is unmatched, and his performance has certainly earned him this recognition.”

Vladislav Gavrikov was named the Outstanding Defenseman, marking the first time he has received this honor. In 81 games, he accumulated 30 points and a plus-27 rating, demonstrating strong defensive skills throughout the season.

Kuemper’s strong defensive play also earned him the Best Defensive Player award, with the Kings allowing just 198 goals against, a figure that puts them among two teams in the NHL that have kept their goals against under 200 this season.

Anze Kopitar was recognized as the Most Inspirational Player for the third time in his career, a testament to his leadership and consistent performance at the age of 37. This season, he has recorded 67 points and became the 43rd player in NHL history to participate in 1,400 regular season games.

“Anze’s impact goes beyond just the scoresheet,” said Hiller. “He inspires not only the team but everyone in the organization.”

Warren Foegele also received the Unsung Hero Award for contributing 23 of his 24 goals during even-strength situations and leading the Kings with 33 takeaways.

The Most Popular Player award went to Quinton Byfield, who achieved a career-high 23 goals this season. His strong rapport with the fanbase and continued offensive progression have made him a standout player.

Kevin Fiala was honored with the Jim Fox Community Service Award for his extensive work with local charities, while Adrian Kempe won the Daryl Evans Youth Hockey Service Award for his significant contributions to youth hockey development programs.

The ceremony celebrated the achievements of these players, reflecting their contributions to the Kings’ successful season. As the Kings head into the playoffs, these awards serve to underscore the individual efforts that have combined to make this team a formidable contender.