Russell Morgan Young Veteran Core
Matt Roy: A-
After a somewhat rough sophomore season for Matt Roy, he has bounced back to be the “Steady Eddy” Todd McLellan so aptly named. He hasn’t missed a game all season, leads LA defensemen in +/-, and leads the team in primary assists.
Although Roy hasn’t scored a goal yet this season, he’s been a sound defender playing in all situations for the Kings. He should continue to be a player looked on in all pressure situations.
Alex Iafallo: A
In the first year of his new four-year contract, Alex Iafallo has continued to elevate his game. With 26 points on the year, he is well on his way to a career year and a possible 50 point season.
After starting the year with Danault on the second line, Iafallo has found himself back with Anze Kopitar playing on the top line helping bring Adrian Kempe‘s game to the next level. The contract is looking good so far.
Adrian Kempe: A+
There’s not much more you can say about what Adrian Kempe has been able to accomplish this year. It took a little while, but we may be starting to see the full potential of his offensive game. He’s on pace for 30 goals this season, with 17 goals so far.
It was great to hear Kempe be acknowledged for his quality play from the league with his All-Star selection. A player once heavily scrutinized by the LA Kings faithful is now someone the Kings desperately need to help with the lack of scoring.
Cal Petersen: B-
This was supposed to be the year Cal Petersen took over as the starting goaltender for the LA Kings. Though, that hasn’t been the case. This isn’t to say he’s been bad by any means. It’s just Jonathan Quick won’t let go of the throne.
While Petersen hasn’t been bad, he’s not been great either. It was a rough start for him which led to Quick getting more consecutive starts than anticipated. After a stint in Covid protocol which kept him away from the team, Petersen has turned his game around and could be living up to his new five million dollar deal.