LA Kings Prospect Tracker: Chromiak’s Hat-Trick and Helenius’ Late Push Highlight Week

The LA Kings prospect tracker is back with highlights from the week ending January 28, 2024. Let’s dive into the standout performances of the Kings’ prospects.

Martin Chromiak, the 2020 128th overall pick, had a tremendous game for the Ontario Reign. He scored a hat-trick, including a power play goal and sealed the deal with an assist. Chromiak’s four-point game earned him the First Star of the Game honor.

In another game for the Reign, Samuel Helenius, a towering 6-foot-6 center, showed his offensive prowess. In the final five minutes of the game, Helenius scored two goals within a minute, bringing the Reign within one goal. His performance showcased his scoring ability and net-front presence.

Akil Thomas, a red-hot forward, continued to impress with his play-driving abilities. He scored the game-winning goal in one game, tapping in a beautiful feed from Alex Turcotte. In another contest, Thomas added a goal on a rebound. His impressive performances show why he may be NHL-bound next season.

On the goaltending front, Erik Portillo had another stellar start for the Reign. He turned away 41-of-42 shots to secure his 12th win of the season. Despite being outshot, Portillo’s performance earned him the Second Star of the Game.

Switching to junior hockey, Kaleb Lawrence of the London Knights had a productive week, contributing two goals and three assists in seven games played. His strong play contributed to his team’s success.

Matthew Mania, a defenseman for the Sudbury Wolves, helped his team secure two victories with his offensive contributions. Although he had a rough game with a minus-3 rating, Mania bounced back in the following game and recorded points.

Angus Booth received a one-game suspension in the QMJHL but was able to watch his team secure a victory during his absence. He will be eligible to return to the lineup soon.

Unfortunately, Koehn Ziemmer remains out of the Prince George Cougars’ lineup due to injury, with no reported timeline for his return.

Jakub Dvorak, playing for the Swift Current Broncos and Bili Tygri Liberec in Czechia, contributed with assists in the WHL and scored goals in the Czech leagues. His development continues to show promise.

Hampton Slukynsky, the top netminder in the USHL, bounced back with a win after his first loss of the season. He made key saves, including a breakaway stop, and even recorded a primary assist.

Jack Sparkes, a physical defenseman for the Chilliwack Chiefs, had a good week with the team winning all three games. Although he spent time in the penalty box, his physical presence was beneficial to his team.

In college hockey, Ryan Conmy of the Univ. of New Hampshire showcased his offensive skills with a power play goal. He contributed to his team’s victory, recording seven shots on goal.

Kenny Connors and Jack Hughes had a tough week as their team, Boston Univ., suffered two losses to Boston College. However, Hughes made an impact with his goal, helping initiate a comeback for the Terriers.