As the dust settles on the 2026 NHL Draft, the Los Angeles Kings, under the direction of general manager Ken Holland, wrapped up their selections with a notable class of 11 new prospects. Leading the charge is Swedish winger Elton Hermansson, their first-round pick, who is already turning heads with his potential to make an impact on the ice.
While the Kings have addressed several key areas within their roster and organization through these draft picks, the door remains open for adding depth. With development camp just around the corner, there's a golden opportunity to scout some undrafted gems who might just be the missing pieces in their lineup puzzle. Every year, a handful of these undrafted players seize the moment, earning contracts and eventually carving out successful NHL careers.
As the Kings gear up for development camp, it's the perfect moment to reassess their needs and scout for any undrafted prospects who could bring value to the team. Here's a look at five such players who stand out as potential assets for the Kings this offseason.
One name that jumps out is Jakub Frolo, a center from Ilves in the Finnish Liiga. This Czech forward was on the radar as a potential middle or later-round pick, and for good reason. Ranked by NHL Central Scouting as one of the top 40 international skaters in this draft class, Frolo combines physical prowess, sharp hockey IQ, and relentless energy on both ends of the rink.
While Frolo may not dazzle with flashy plays, his reliability as a two-way forward is undeniable. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 195 pounds, he brings a solid mix of size and physicality, making him an ideal candidate for a specific role. With the right development, Frolo could evolve into a versatile forward capable of contributing in the middle or bottom-six lines, a valuable asset for any NHL team looking to bolster its depth.
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Kings Just Sent A Major Signal About Drew Doughtys Future
The Kings are moving cautiously with Drew Doughty as he heads into the final season of the deal that has defined the back half of his career in Los Angeles. General manager Ken Holland said the veteran defenseman will not be extended this summer, keeping the focus on the season ahead for a player who has spent all 18 years of his NHL career with the club.
Holland and Doughty are expected to revisit the situation after the 2026-27 season, which leaves the door open without forcing an immediate decision. It is a notable stance for a franchise cornerstone who has long been part of the Kings' identity, and it comes with the understanding that the picture could look very different by the time they sit down again. [Read more 🡒]
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Nikishin is still unsigned as a pending restricted free agent, which means any move would require both a trade package and a fresh contract on top of it. Carolina is unlikely to let a player with his upside go cheaply, but the fit is easy to see from the Kings side, especially with the need for a long-term answer on defense still sitting near the top of the list. [Read more 🡒]