Exploring key questions leading into training camp

After a long, stressful, and likely much-needed summer break for the LA Kings and their fans, training camp is just two weeks away. Before the ice sees action, let’s explore a few key questions ahead of camp.

Will Adrian Kempe sign an extension before the season begins?

Kempe is entering the final year of a four-year contract, making him eligible to sign a new deal with the club now if he chooses. Reports indicate Kempe is seeking at least $10 million per year. While Kings fans recognize his value to the team, Kempe isn’t necessarily a high-level regular-season producer. Last season, he finished 38th among all skaters in points, with 73 in 81 games.

However, it’s his playoff production that Kempe and his agent, J.P. Barry, will emphasize in negotiations. Over the last three postseasons, Kempe’s 1.35 points per game rank third among all skaters with at least ten games played.

For a team desperate for postseason success, losing its top playoff performer would be detrimental to its Stanley Cup hopes—and could see management out the door with him.

Will this be Anze Kopitar’s curtain call?

The 2025-26 NHL season will be the 20th of Kopitar’s career. But will it be his last? The 38-year-old center has hinted at times that the slog of an 82-game regular season is harder to navigate than ever before.

After signing a two-year contract in the summer of 2023, carrying him through the 2025-26 season, all indications pointed to him retiring after its conclusion. While his pace may have slipped slightly over the past few seasons, his production hasn’t.

It’s hard to imagine a Kings team without number 11 in the lineup. Given Kopitar’s preference for staying out of the spotlight, let’s hope he gives notice when he decides to hang up his skates, so Kings fans can celebrate the greatest player in franchise history.

Will management back up their talk with Brandt Clarke?

“Brandt Clarke was the eighth pick in the draft; he needs to play. There’s a lot of hope and belief he’s going to develop into an important player for this team.” Those were Ken Holland’s words after the draft in LA.

While many, including myself, were upset about trading Jordan Spence for minimal return, it was easier to accept if it meant increased ice time for Brandt Clarke. Then came free agency.

Given head coach Jim Hiller’s preference for a big, rangy, and physical defense, it’s hard to imagine Clarke securing true top-four ice time with newcomers Cody Ceci and Brian Dumoulin in the mix.

Will any prospects crack the opening night lineup?

Looking at the Kings’ roster, there aren’t many openings. The defense is set, and the signings of Corey Perry and Joel Armia have solidified a fourth line that saw constant changes last year. This could spell trouble for young prospects hoping to earn a roster spot by October 7.

However, if there’s a player who could make a case, it’s 2024 first-round pick Liam Greentree. At 6’3” and 215 pounds, the 19-year-old winger already has the size to be an NHLer. While his skill is evident, his pace could be an issue.

Ken Holland has mentioned Greentree’s name several times this summer, suggesting he has a strong chance to earn at least a nine-game look before potentially returning to the OHL.