Kings Near Decisions on Prospects Amid Roster Adjustments

LOS ANGELES, CA — With the 2024-25 hockey season wrapping up globally, NHL executives, including those of the Los Angeles Kings, are strategizing for the next season. As championship trophies are still being awarded in various North American leagues, contract activities are gaining momentum.

This is the time of year when NHL organizations assess their prospect pools and determine which players will receive entry-level contracts. Key factors influencing these decisions include organizational needs, players’ development since being drafted, and the expiration of players’ rights. NHL teams hold rights to Canadian major junior players for two years post-Draft and college players for typically four years, ending when they run out of college eligibility.

Additionally, NHL teams must adhere to a maximum of 50 contracts, which include two-way contracts for players in the minors and junior players already signed to ELCs.

Currently, the Kings face critical decisions regarding defenseman Matthew Mania, a fifth-round pick from the 2023 Draft, who has a June 1 deadline, and forward Jack Hughes, a second-round pick from 2022, whose deadline is August 15. Though Mania has spent time in the OHL, his development has not progressed to the point of securing a contract. Assistant General Manager and Director of Amateur Scouting have noted the need for heightened NHL potential in any prospect eligible for signing.

In contrast, Hughes, who transferred from Northeastern to Boston University, has exhibited potential but struggled with consistency. His situation has been previously discussed in detail with Kings management. However, the organization is not expected to extend contracts to either Mania or Hughes.

Despite these rejections, the Kings are optimistic about the 2022 Draft class. Five of the six other selections are expected to receive contracts, with Angus Booth already signed and performing excellently as a defensive player in Ontario. Other notable prospects from that class include Kaleb Lawrence and potentially Jack Sparkes.

Looking ahead, Kings General Manager Rob Blake is preparing to offer entry-level contracts to four players soon. This group includes Kenny Connors, Jared Wright, Otto Salin, and Kirill Kirsanov.

Connors, a fourth-round pick in 2022, is set to join the NCAA playoffs with UMass. He has demonstrated his ability as a game-changer on the ice and is expected to contribute significantly to the Reign next season.

Wright, expected to fill a depth role, has been a key shutdown player for the Pioneers and is positioned to potentially sign with the Kings post playoffs.

In Liiga, Salin secured critical victories for his team, TPS Turku, recently scoring the game-winning goal and gaining significant traction in scoring metrics. The Kings anticipate extending a contract to him following his exit from the playoffs.

Kirsanov, a third-round selection from the 2021 NHL Draft, is poised for a North American transition, with recent analysis from Kings management indicating strong attributes conducive to an NHL career.

As the Kings manage their roster, they will remain focused on nurturing talent from their prospect pool while navigating contract considerations.