Episode
Will the LA Kings draft for need or take the best available with the 17th pick in the NHL Draft?
- Published
- Jun 26, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2094
- Processing state
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Summary
The Los Angeles Kings face a pivotal decision with the 17th overall pick in the upcoming NHL Draft—will they find their next franchise center or target elite scoring talent? With prospects like Oliver Suvanto, Ilya Morozov, Nikita Klepov, and Alexander Command generating buzz, draft experts fiercely debate who fits best as the Kings prepare for a post-Anze Kopitar era. The conversation focused on expert predictions, key center and winger prospects, and the strengths and potential impact of each player's style on LA's roster. A key theme that emerged was the Kings' urgent need for high-end forwards, with scouting reports dissecting offensive upside, NHL readiness, and the possibility of a change in drafting philosophy with new coach Peter Laviolette. Can the Kings maximize this rare opportunity to strengthen their future core and finally address their prospect pool's glaring weaknesses?