Locked On Kings - Daily Podcast On The Los Angeles Kings

The LA Kings target offensive firepower as the NHL Draft looms. Will Nikita Klepov, the OHL’s rookie scoring leader, still be available at #17, or will the Kings pivot to rising wingers Oscar Hemming? The hunt for high-ceiling talent intensifies, with draft experts split and big names like Oliver Savanto also in the mix to fill the team’s glaring need at center. Eddie Garcia spotlights key prospects, compares expert mock drafts, and dissects the Kings’ strategic direction as Peter Laviolette officially takes the helm as head coach. Can LA’s first-round pick be the spark that transforms their offense in the post-Anze Kopitar era? Get the latest insights on possible trade scenarios, scouting reports, and which future NHL stars could one day be in LA. 

00:00 Kings Draft Targets & Laviolette Hire

12:30 Expert Draft Projections

20:58 Kings Pick Strategies & Upcoming Coverage

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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The Los Angeles Kings land veteran coach Peter Laviolette to help turn their playoff fortunes around. Will his aggressive, up-tempo style unlock the Kings’ true potential and spark a deep postseason run? Eddie Garcia breaks down why Laviolette, the NHL's winningest American-born coach, is the right fit for LA. Key topics include Laviolette’s impressive résumé—Stanley Cup win with the Carolina Hurricanes, Finals runs with the Flyers and Predators—and his track record of instant team turnarounds. Eddie Garcia highlights connections to Kings players like Artemi Panarin and examines how Laviolette’s demanding, accountability-driven approach might impact the locker room. The episode also covers Anze Kopitar’s Lady Byng finalist finish, the re-signing of Aatu Jameson and reports surrounding Edmonton Oilers’ surprising coaching hire. Don’t miss this comprehensive look at what Laviolette’s arrival means for the Los Angeles Kings’ offseason strategy and their quest to become true Stanley Cup contenders.

00:00 Kings Hire Peter Laviolette

12:00 Laviolette’s First-Year Impact

20:00 Awards, Kings News, Oilers Move

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KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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LA Kings fans ignite the offseason rumor mill: can Los Angeles land a top-6 center like Dylan Larkin or Austin Matthews? Eddie Garcia navigates a flurry of trade proposals, free agent targets, and intriguing center options including Tomas Hertl, Nico Hischier, Boone Jenner, and Mavrik Bourque. Is Ken Holland ready to shake up the Kings' lineup to chase true contention in the Pacific Division. Coaching speculation heats up as listeners debate the merits of Peter Laviolette, Jay Woodcroft, and others to shape the Kings’ identity. Additional topics include a new job for Rob Blake, the mysterious streak of Canadian teams in the Stanley Cup, and a passionate look at LA’s classic purple-and-gold vs. black-and-silver uniforms. Will this offseason mark a true turning point for the LA Kings' playoff aspirations?

00:00 Kings' Center Options & Fan Feedback

12:00 Head Coach Candidates & Culture

23:00 Byfield, Kings Identity & Misc Topics

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Hims
To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL.

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Could the Los Angeles Kings land Dylan Larkin as a potential franchise center following the Detroit Red Wings' shocking trade saga? With Larkin reportedly seeking a move after another playoff miss in Detroit, could his connection with Kings GM Ken Holland give LA an edge in landing the Wings captain? Eddie Garcia assesses Larkin’s fit in the Kings lineup, the competitive trade market, and whether LA’s assets stack up. Key discussions spotlight the Red Wings’ possible rebuild, Darnell Nurse trade rumors, and updates on the Kings’ coaching search, featuring names like Peter Laviolette and Jay Woodcroft. Special guest Mike Farwell shares insider analysis on Kings defensive prospect Jared Woolley's championship pedigree and NHL potential. Is LA poised to fill its top-six center void, or will rivals swoop in first? Don’t miss this packed episode full of roster intrigue and prospect insights.

00:00 Dylan Larkin Trade Rumors

13:22 Darnell Nurse and Coaching Search

21:04 Jared Woolley Prospect Interview

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Hims
To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL.

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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The LA Kings need to hit on their 17th overall pick in the NHL Draft. Eddie Garcia spotlights draft targets like Oscar Hemming, the 6'4" Finnish winger projected as a potential top-10 talent. The episode unpacks expert insights from major analysts, evaluating Hemming’s scoring upside, physical edge, and how his unique junior and NCAA path impact his draft outlook. Critical analysis extends to other prospects on the Kings’ radar—including Swedish winger Elton Hermanssen and WHL scoring sensation JP Hurlburt—while scrutinizing their ceilings, consistency, and NHL readiness. Should LA stick at 17, or will front office trade-back tactics pay off again? Keys to the Kings’ draft strategy, best-available talent philosophy, and positional needs all come to the forefront as fans gain an inside look at how this pivotal pick could shape the next era of LA hockey.

00:00 Kings Draft Strategy & History

04:16 Prospect Deep Dives: Hemming, Hermanssen, Hurlburt

25:53 Draft Philosophy & Final Thoughts

Hims
To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL.

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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The Los Angeles Kings face key questions as Quinton Byfield’s progress stalls. Will the former No. 2 overall pick finally break out and claim a true top-line center role? Eddie Garcia recaps Byfield’s up-and-down season, comparing his development to Adrian Kempe and other recent high-draft picks. Discussion includes Byfield’s offensive stats, defensive responsibilities, and what it will take for him to jumpstart his production—especially with a potential new coaching hire on the horizon. Plus, special guest David Morassutti (Locked On Maple Leafs) provides insights into potential LA coaching candidates like Craig Berube, while also weighing in on persistent Auston Matthews-to-LA rumors. 

00:00 Quentin Byfield Season Review Discussion and analysis of Quentin Byfield's performance, expectations, and development compared to peers. 

11:10 Kings Draft History and Peer Comparison Evaluation of Byfield's place among his draft class and recent second-overall picks; highlights of other LA Kings draftees. 

21:04 Coaching Search and Auston Matthews Rumors Interview segment focusing on Kings and Maple Leafs coaching searches, and speculation about Auston Matthews' future.

Hims
To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL.

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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The Los Angeles Kings need a top six center. Will they land a difference-maker to bolster their playoff chances? Eddie Garcia examines the LA Kings’ urgent offseason needs following Anze Kopitar’s retirement, with potential trade targets including Elias Pettersson, Ryan O’Reilly, Vincent Trocheck, Mika Zibanejad, and Matthew Barzal. Discussion spotlights which NHL teams are also hunting for a top-tier center, the Kings’ limited assets compared to teams they are in competition with and the likelihood of Alex Laferriere shifting to center if a deal can’t be made. Additional topics include updates on the Kings’ head coaching search and Kings prospect Jared Woolley’s rare back-to-back Memorial Cup triumphs.

00:00 — Kings Top Six Center Search

10:13 — Trade Candidates Breakdown

24:26 — Coaching Search & Prospect News

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Hims
To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL.

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Los Angeles Kings fans propose blockbuster trades, including wild scenarios including Connor McDavid and Jason Robertson. Insightful listener feedback sparks heated analysis of LA's current roster. Host Eddie Garcia breaks down LA’s ongoing head coaching search and why is Dan Bylsma not in the running? The debate intensifies over Drew Doughty’s contract future, the effectiveness of goalie prospects Carter George and Hampton Slukynsky, and the organization’s direction under Luc Robitaille. Can Los Angeles rebuild into a contender, or will “safe” moves keep them stuck in mediocrity?

00:00 — Wild Fan Trade Proposals

10:19 — Kings Head Coach Search

21:29 — Kings Management & Future

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Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

Rugiet
Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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The Los Angeles Kings face a pivotal decision: will top goalie prospects Hampton Slukynsky and Carter George form an NHL tandem, or will the emergence of one force a trade? Eddie Garcia breaks down the Kings’ goaltending depth, analyzing Slukynsky’s championship pedigree and how the organization could navigate their development amid roster logjams with veterans Darcy Kuemper and Anton Forsberg.

Special guest Robin Hook, longtime voice of Western Michigan University, reveals insider insights into Slukynsky’s relentless competitiveness, leadership, and rise to NCAA champion. Plus, the latest coaching rumors swirl as Bruce Cassidy and Peter Laviolette appear unlikely to land in LA, leaving the Kings at a coaching crossroads. Can the Kings’ young netminders emerge as franchise cornerstones.

00:00 — Kings Goalie Prospects: Slukinski & George

11:13 — Interview: Robin Hook on Slukinski at WMU

25:59 — Kings Coaching Search Updates

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

Rugiet
Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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The Los Angeles Kings face a pivotal offseason as trade rumors swirl around veteran goalie Darcy Kuemper. Will GM Ken Holland move on from the former Stanley Cup winner to reshape the Kings’ goaltending tandem? Kuemper’s recent inconsistency and salary spark questions about his future, while Anton Forsberg and Eric Portillo await larger roles in net. Eddie Garcia evaluates potential trade scenarios, the Kings’ goaltending depth chart, and which NHL teams could land Kuemper. The episode also spotlights LA’s head coaching search, with interviews reportedly held with Jay Woodcroft and Peter Laviolette. Plus prospect Jared Woolley is now heading to the Memorial Cup final. How will these decisions impact the Kings’ path back to contention and open up playing time for rising stars?

00:00 — Darcy Kuemper Evaluation

08:56 — Kings Goaltender Options

20:33 — Coaching Search & Prospect Update

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

Rugiet
Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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