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A notable insider has shot down speculation regarding a potential coaching move by the LA Kings this season.
One of the hottest rumors around the league is a purported coaching change by the LA Kings. Speculation began to surface regarding the team’s potential move behind the bench amid a less-than-stellar start.
The Kings are third in the Pacific Division and have a four-point lead over the fourth-place Edmonton Oilers. While that may not be the worst position to be in, the organization has grown impatient. The team has had a string of first-round exits, all against the Edmonton Oilers.
As it stands, this season may be different for the LA Kings. They may get the chance to sidestep the Oilers. But that doesn’t necessarily mean the Kings are ready to plan their Stanley Cup parade.
The apparent lack of success has fueled rumors of a coaching change. But such rumors are unfounded, according to the Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta. In particular, Pagnotta addressed the rumors that the LA Kings have spoken to former Dallas Stars’ coach Peter DeBoer.
Pagnotta wrote on December 8:
“Rumours were flying last week over Jim Hiller’s tenure in Los Angeles. Not only did Kings GM Ken Holland deny to me that he’s spoken with Pete DeBoer, but he also confirmed the team isn’t considering a coaching change.”
Pagnotta doubled down on his assertions, stating:
“In fact, as of today, DeBoer has not spoken with any NHL club about a Head Coach position this season. So, for now, that’s that.”
The Stars dismissed DeBoer following their elimination last spring at the hands of the Edmonton Oilers in the Western Conference Final. DeBoer will be one of the assistant coaches under Jon Cooper for Team Canada at the 2026 Olympics.
LA Kings Searching for More Offense
The most credible rumor surrounding the LA Kings is their search for more offense. They have struggled to score this season, with just 80 total goals entering Tuesday night’s action.
As such, the rumor mill has continued to grind with talk of the Kings looking to bolster the overall offensive attack. However, no credible names have emerged as potential trade targets for the LA Kings.
Beyond the usual suspects such as Nazem Kadri and Ryan O’Reilly, few names have emerged as credible players on the trade block. Of course, that’s something that could change this month. The Christmas trade freeze could prompt a couple of GMs here and there to pull the trigger.
Kings Hanging Tough in Pacific Division
Despite ranking 27th in the league with 2.72 goals per game, the LA Kings are hanging tough in the Pacific Division. The club sits third with 35 points, two points behind the Vegas Golden Knights and four points back of the surprising Anaheim Ducks.
That situation puts the LA Kings in a decent spot. The Oilers have struggled this season, with the upstart San Jose Sharks nipping at their heels. The Kings are currently riding a two-game winning streak and are 4-3-3 in their last 10 games.
If the trend continues, the Kings could finally meet a different opponent in the first round this season. That opponent could be the Golden Knights. While that matchup would hardly be an easy one, it would be a welcome change for the team and its fans.
Nestor Quixtan Seasoned NHL analyst and baseball writer focused on covering clubs across each league with news, analysis, and insights. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Nestor’s singular experiences and background have enabled him to bring a different take on the sports world as a whole. Nestor’s fondness for baseball and hockey set the tone for his love and passion for writing about sports. More about Nestor Quixtan
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