Locked On Kings - Daily Podcast On The Los Angeles Kings

LA Kings fans sound off as front office frustration grows—are playoff exits the new normal or is sweeping change on the horizon? Eddie Garcia reads fan emails questioning Ken Holland’s offseason moves, the contracts for Cody Ceci and Brian Dumoulin, and the controversial decision to move on from Jordan Spence. With Drew Doughty’s future contract and Quinton Byfield’s status as a franchise cornerstone under the microscope, the Kings’ path forward looks uncertain. Key topics include LA’s need for a top-line center, the ripple effects of the NHL Draft lottery, and concerns about aging veterans versus youth development. Are rumors about Bruce Cassidy true, and could a new coach jumpstart the Kings’ resurgence? Listener feedback also sparks debate on ticket sales as leverage, the rise of rivals like the Anaheim Ducks and San Jose Sharks, and whether ownership is listening. Get the latest pulse on the Los Angeles Kings’ evolving offseason outlook.

00:00 Fan Feedback: Offseason Moves

06:04 NHL Draft Lottery Explained

14:47 Doughty Extension & Coaching Search

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

Rugiet

Quo
Make this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.
Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

LA Kings prospects shine after University of Denver’s historic national championship run. Can James Reader, Christian Epperson, and Brendan McMorrow become future NHL standouts? Eddie Garcia sits down with Tyler King of the Denver Gazette to spotlight the Kings’ talent pipeline, breaking down Reader’s playmaking evolution, Epperson’s clutch performances, and McMorrow’s high-end speed and grit. The episode also covers Jared Wright’s NHL debut, the legacy of former Pioneer Trevor Moore, and David Carle’s coaching future. Plus, get a fan-driven update on the Ontario Reign’s Calder Cup playoff battle. Unlock insider analysis on the Kings’ next generation and what their NCAA roots mean for LA’s long-term roster.

00:00 — DU Kings Prospects Introduction Eddie Garcia discusses LA Kings prospects from University of Denver and introduces guest Tyler King. 

03:44 — DU Program’s Legacy & Prospect Analysis Tyler King explains University of Denver's college hockey dominance, then breaks down Kings prospects James Reader, Christian Epperson, and Brendan McMorrow in detail. 

17:09 — Jared Wright & Coaching Discussion Tyler King compares Jared Wright and McMorrow, assesses Wright’s NHL readiness, and analyzes head coach David Carl’s possible NHL future. 

25:12 — Ontario Reign Playoff Update Eddie Garcia and fan correspondent recap the LA Kings AHL affiliate Ontario Reign's Calder Cup playoff series.

Everydayer Club 

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 

Indeed 

Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. 

KALSHI 

For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. 

Gametime 

Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. 

FanDuel 

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 

5-Hour ENERGY 

The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! 

Rugiet 

Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men. Quo Make this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away. Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnhl. 

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Los Angeles Kings face a decision as Drew Doughty's future comes into sharp focus. With age and diminishing offensive stats, should Doughty take on a reduced role, or is he still vital as the Kings' top defenseman and likely next captain? Eddie Garcia reevaluates Doughty’s legacy, his recent performance alongside Brandt Clarke’s rise, and the franchise’s plans for contract extensions as the Kings look to balance sentiment with on-ice results. Key topics include the impact of Doughty’s leadership after Anze Kopitar’s retirement and speculation on the Kings’ next head coach—with names like Jay Woodcroft and Bruce Cassidy in the mix. Plus: Auston Matthews likely stays with the Toronto Maple Leafs after the draft lottery shakes up expectations, and a Kings rival bolsters its roster with a top pick. Can the Kings evolve while honoring their franchise icon?

00:00 Drew Doughty's Future with Kings

10:58 Doughty’s Captaincy & Contract Outlook

21:05 NHL Draft Lottery & Coaching Search

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

Rugiet

Quo
Make this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.
Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Los Angeles Kings search for answers after a disappointing season as GM Ken Holland lays out the challenges ahead. Can the Kings rebound from another early playoff exit, or is a deeper rebuild looming? Holland’s candid press conference raises tough questions about roster construction, offensive woes, and the futures of Drew Doughty. Host Eddie Garcia breaks down Holland’s key statements, including the need for increased goal scoring, special teams upgrades and the search for a new head coach. Discussion highlights include concerns over the "massive hole" left by Anze Kopitar, and whether Quinton Byfield is ready to become the Kings’ centerpiece. Insights on LA’s defensive strengths, possible trade scenarios, and the development of key prospects set the stage for an offseason full of tough decisions. Is this the crossroads moment for the LA Kings’ quest for sustained NHL contention?

00:00 Ken Holland Press Conference Reactions

12:35 Coaching Search & Key Personnel Decisions

21:19 Offseason Priorities & Draft Strategy

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

Rugiet

Quo
Make this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.
Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Los Angeles Kings face mounting fan frustration as questions swirl around the team’s offseason direction and organizational changes. With playoff exits piling up and calls for a rebuild growing louder, Eddie Garcia explores whether it’s time for the Kings to overhaul their front office or stay the course. Key issues include the futures of prospects like Brant Clarke, potential coaching hires such as Bruce Cassidy and Peter Laviolette, and the impact of recent trades involving Kevin Fiala and Brock Faber. Listener emails fuel a candid discussion on the Kings’ bare prospect cupboard, inconsistent scoring, and the long-term role of veterans like Drew Doughty. Are the Kings stuck in “Hollywood culture,” or do they need real hockey solutions? With names like Elias Pettersson, Mason Marchment, and Nico Hischier floated as targets, the debate intensifies over whether LA should chase a star center or reinforce depth scoring. How will Ken Holland’s decisions shape the Kings’ future?

00:00 Kings Offseason: Fan Feedback
Kickoff with fan emails discussing team direction, potential rebuild, and frustration with organizational consistency.

11:09 Offseason Moves & Coaching
Analysis of offseason priorities—coaching candidates, free agent targets, and management changes fueled by more listener feedback.

21:18 Cup Hopes & GM Critique
Discussion shifts to Stanley Cup hopes, listener dreams for new leadership, and pointed critiques of GM Ken Holland's end-of-season statements.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

Rugiet

Quo
Make this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.
Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

LA Kings fans sound off after another first-round playoff exit—has the time come for a major shakeup? Eddie Garcia unpacks passionate reactions from the Kings community, spotlighting frustration over Lu Robitaille’s future, questions about management loyalty hires, and calls for fresh leadership behind the bench. The conversation explores whether proven coaches like Bruce Cassidy could reinvigorate a roster featuring Adrian Kempe, Quinton Byfield, and Artemi Panarin, while dissecting the impact of recent trades and the need for a true elite center. Can the Los Angeles Kings escape years of middling results, or does the franchise need a full rebuild to keep pace with the NHL’s emerging powerhouses? Key discussion points include Drew Doughty’s possible extension and defensive struggles after losing key players. Don’t miss this candid, no-holds-barred look at the road ahead for the Kings.

00:00 Fan Feedback: Kings' Offseason Reactions

14:12 Season Recap & Coaching Debate

24:03 Rebuild vs. Retool: Fan Perspectives

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

Rugiet

Quo
Make this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.
Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

LA Kings’ leadership vacuum looms as Drew Doughty declares, “It would mean the world to me to be the captain,” and seemingly issues an endorsement for D.J. Smith to remain head coach. Can Doughty anchor a new era while Brant Clarke eyes the No. 1 defenseman role? With Anze Kopitar departing, the culture and core identity of the Kings face a pivotal turning point. Host Eddie Garcia breaks down revealing exit interviews with Kings defensemen and goalies, highlighting Brant Clarke’s confidence and desire for a bigger role, Drew Doughty’s contract ambitions, and the locker room’s approach to collective leadership. Additional topics include Anton Forsberg and Darcy Kuemper’s playoff perspectives, Joel Edmundson’s optimism for next season, and Kopitar’s bid for a fourth Lady Byng Memorial Trophy. 

00:00 Kings Defense & Goalie Exit Interviews

13:49 Brant Clarke's Role & Future

24:01 Kopitar's Lady Byng Finalist & Kings News

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

Warby Parker

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Los Angeles Kings face major offseason questions as Anze Kopitar’s retirement leaves a leadership and lineup void. Can Quinton Byfield emerge as the next cornerstone? Eddie Garcia recaps the raw reactions from locker room exit interviews, spotlighting Kempe’s doubts about moving to center, Byfield’s battle through injury, and Alex Laferriere’s willingness to adapt. Key storylines include Scott Laughton’s strong desire to stay in LA contrasted with Andrei Kuzmenko’s uncertain future and the impact of missed opportunities in the regular season. With pivotal decisions looming on center depth, roster turnover, and coaching, Eddie explores whether this tight-knit Kings squad can reclaim contender status next year—or if roster moves and internal growth are enough to fill the Kopitar-sized gap. Will Drew Doughty or another veteran step into the captaincy, and is the current core truly built for a deep playoff run? Plus the Ontario Reign struggle in their playoff opener. 

00:00 Kings Exit Interviews Recap

11:37 Byfield & Player Reactions

23:12 Ontario Reign Playoff Update

Indeed

KALSHI

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

Warby Parker

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Ontario Reign gear up for their Calder Cup quest amid roster shifts and standout performances—can their depth carry them past Coachella Valley Firebirds? Broadcaster Cam McGuire joins Eddie Garcia to preview Ontario’s playoff showdown, spotlighting coach Andrew Lord’s high-energy leadership and the seamless connection between the LA Kings and their AHL affiliate. Key topics include Martin Chromiak and Nikita Alexandrov’s balanced scoring, goalie questions surrounding Eric Portillo, Phoenix Copley, and Hampton Slukynsky, and the impact of NHL call-ups like Jared Wright. Special teams could define the series, with Ontario boasting a top-10 power play and penalty kill. How will the Reign’s committee approach stack up against Coachella Valley, and can rising prospects Angus Booth and Kirill Kirsanov help shut down opponents? Get the inside scoop on Ontario’s Pacific Division title, organizational culture, and their path toward AHL glory.

 00:00 Ontario Reign Season Recap Eddie Garcia introduces guest Cam McGuire; Background on Cam McGuire, AHL affiliation, coaching, and organizational structure. 

13:07 Key Players & Call-Ups Discussion on Ontario Reign key performers, player development, NHL call-ups, and impact of youth additions. 

21:23 Playoff Preview & Matchup Analysis Breakdown of Ontario Reign vs. Coachella Valley Firebirds playoff series, season series stats, strengths, and playoff expectations. 

Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: lockedonlakings.supercast.com/ 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 

Indeed 

Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. 

KALSHI 

For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything.  

Gametime 

Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. 

FanDuel 

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 

5-Hour ENERGY 

The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! 

Warby Parker 

It’s the perfect time to upgrade your glasses for spring. Buy one prescription pair and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/LOCKEDONNHL. 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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Los Angeles Kings suffer another first-round playoff exit after a season marked by inconsistency and crucial turning points. Eddie Garcia looks back at this season spotlights the arrival of Artemi Panarin in a blockbuster trade, Kevin Fiala’s devastating Olympic injury, and franchise legend Anze Kopitar eclipsing Marcel Dionne’s all-time points record—each moment redefining the Kings’ rollercoaster campaign. Key topics include the Kings' alarming struggles on home ice, D.J. Smith’s effect as interim head coach following Jim Hiller’s dismissal, and looming offseason questions about the team’s search for a top-six center. Get a comprehensive look at contract outlooks for core players and upcoming decisions on unrestricted free agents. Can General Manager Ken Holland turn the Kings into true Stanley Cup contenders, or is a reset on the horizon for L.A.'s hockey faithful?

00:00 Kings Season Recap

09:50 Season-Defining Moments

19:04 Next Season Roster Outlook

Indeed

FanDuel

5-Hour ENERGY

Warby Parker

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.