Locked On Kings - Daily Podcast On The Los Angeles Kings

The LA Kings have added veteran forwards Matt Zuccarello and Eric Haula while bringing back Scott Laughton and Corey Perry. Is this experienced core enough to ignite the Kings’ offense and power them back into contention under new head coach Peter Laviolette’s up-tempo system? Eddie Garcia breaks down how these moves impact lineup dynamics, spotlighting potential center roles for Adrian Kempe, Alex Laferriere, and the battle for depth spots with Alex Turcotte and Samuel Helenius. Key topics include concerns over the team’s aging roster, remaining salary cap flexibility, and whether GM Ken Holland will address lingering questions on defense and goaltending. With former Kings moving on and intriguing names still on the market, will LA’s mix of fresh faces and proven veterans deliver the chemistry needed for a playoff run?

00:00 — Kings Free Agency Signings

Breakdown of LA Kings' new additions on opening day of NHL free agency, including analysis of veterans like Matt Zuccarello and Eric Holla.

10:26 — Familiar Faces Return

Discussion of returning players Scott Lawton and Corey Perry, evaluation of their roles, and implications for Kings' lineup depth.

22:27 — Roster Implications & Remaining Needs

Impact of new signings on prospects and depth players (Turcotte, Helenius), plus speculation on future moves for defense and goaltending.

 

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The LA Kings signed Brandt Clarke with a five-year, $37 million extension. As Drew Doughty nears the end of his contract and questions swirl about his future, Clarke appears primed to seize the number one defenseman role. Is he ready to lead the Kings’ blue line and power play, and could he become an elite NHL defenseman in the league’s next generation? Eddie Garcia breaks down the Kings’ offseason priorities, including Clarke’s contract implications, upcoming free agency decisions on Scott Laughton and Andre Kuzmenko and the search for new center options. Trade rumors heat up with Alexander Nikishin emerging as a potential target, while new head coach Peter Laviolette finalizes his staff with Hall of Famer Phil Housley and newcomer Ray Whitney. Get the latest on LA Kings roster moves, coaching changes, and potential impact players as the NHL free agency window opens.

00:00 Brandt Clarke Contract Extension

13:20 Free Agency & Trades Preview

21:06 Kings Complete Coaching Staff

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The LA Kings spark debate with draft strategy—did they pass on a player that feel to them while reaching with their first pick? Eddie Garcia analyzes the decision to pass on Ethan Belchetz in favor of winger Elton Hermansson, debating the scouting department's approach under Mark Yannetti. The episode scrutinizes Hermanson’s potential, the reasoning behind trading back, and what sets him apart from other high-ceiling prospects. Key topics include expert reactions, draft grades from industry leaders, and an in-depth review of the Kings’ eleven diverse picks—including selections like Liam Lefebvre and towering goaltender Yegor Rybkin. Listeners get the inside scoop on whether this prospect pool ranks among the league’s best. Will Elton Hermansson prove to be the Kings’ next game-changer, or did LA miss out on a golden opportunity?

00:00 Kings Draft First Round Reaction Analysis and opinion on the LA Kings' decision to trade down in the first round, passing on Ethan Belchetz for Elton Hermansen. 

12:49 Full Draft Breakdown Review and scouting reports for each of the Kings’ 11 draft picks in 2026, including analysis on their backgrounds and potential. 

27:40 Draft Grades & Expert Opinions Summary and discussion of expert grades and opinions on the Kings' 2026 draft class, plus thoughts on development camp.

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LA Kings fans spark bold trade proposals and demand answers as offseason changes heat up. Could a blockbuster move for players like Elias Pettersson reshape the roster? Eddie Garcia tackles fan reactions, new of the Kings first-round selection of Elton Hermansen in the NHL Draft and the contract extension for defenseman Brandt Clarke. Key topics include Peter Laviolette’s coaching impact on the Kings’ playing style, Drew Doughty’s contract future, and the organization’s ongoing development challenges. Listeners question management’s decisions, debate the merits of acquiring big-name free agents and weigh potential deals involving goalie Darcy Kuemper. This episode is your all-access pass to a passionate—and sometimes provocative—Kings fanbase.

00:00 Fan Feedback & Draft Reactions

Eddie Garcia introduces the fan feedback show, discusses LA Kings' first-round pick of Elton Hermansen, and mentions the Brandt Clarke contract extension. Initial fan questions cover offseason trades, Peter Laviolette’s coaching impact, defensive upgrades, and free agency rumors.

12:14 Kings Trades & Prospect Discussion

The conversation shifts to in-depth fan trade proposals, including wild scenarios for acquiring NHL stars and realistic versus “pipe dream” trade talk. Eddie Garcia also addresses questions about trading up in the draft, player development, and assistant coaching staff.

24:25 Player Development & Management Critique

This segment focuses on concerns about Kings’ recent signings and management decisions, internal player development, and trade strategies for goaltending. Eddie Garcia also clarifies who is responsible for player development. 

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://lockedonlakings.supercast.com

 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

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

 

Odoo

Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

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. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now.

5-Hour ENERGY

Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon

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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With the nineteenth overall pick of the 2026 NHL Draft, the LA Kings select Elton Hermansson of Modo Hockey
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