In this episode, John and Dennis discuss a recent trip to Europe and their upcoming travel plans. John talks about their experiences in Berlin, Frankfurt, Heidelberg, and Madrid, including attending concerts and witnessing the celebration for the Spain team winning the Euro Cup. DB shares his excitement for their upcoming trips to Vienna, Salzburg, and Wrexham. In the second period, The Mayor interviews Eric Lacroix, a former member of the LA Kings, who shares his journey in hockey and his son's participation in the Kings' development camp.

KOTP Shots from the Point:

• Quinton Byfield signed a five-year contract with the LA Kings for $6.25 million AAV
• The contract provides security for Byfield and flexibility for the Kings to add pieces to their roster.
• Byfield is expected to center a line with Kevin Fiala as his winger.
• The lineup and potential combinations of wingers, including Warren Foegele, Akil Thomas, and Tanner Jeannot, are discussed.
• Jordan Spence's contract and other prospect notes are mentioned.
• The LA Kings have several prospects participating in the World Junior Camps, which is a summer evaluation camp for young players.
• Liam Greentree, the Kings' first-round draft pick, has signed a three-year entry-level contract but is not eligible to play in the AHL next year.
• Koehn Ziemmer, a top draft pick from two years ago, is AHL eligible this coming season due to his birthday falling on December 31st.
• There is uncertainty about where Ziemmer and Jacob Dvorak will play next season, as their roles could be affected by other players' progress.
• Arthur Kaliyev, a highly regarded prospect, has not generated much trade interest, and the Kings may try to increase his trade value by giving him more playing time. Kaliyev's future with the Kings is uncertain, and it will depend on his performance and willingness to commit to the organization.
• Fans will have the opportunity to join an upcoming episode of Kings of the Podcast for the show's 200th episode

You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

LAK G Darcy Kuemper returns to both the Kings and KOTP! He stops in for a 1-on-1 with The Mayor.

KOTP bullet points:

• The LA Kings have been active in making trades, including acquiring goaltender Darcy Kuemper.
• There are rumors about the Kings being interested in Nikolaj Ehlers, but it may not make sense given the team's need for a right-handed shot.
• The history of players wearing number 35 for the Kings is discussed.
• The Kings' lineup for the upcoming season is still uncertain, but there are options for right-handed shots.
• The guys tease fun stories about Vegas in the third period of the episode.

You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

LAK Coach Jim Hiller stops by in the second period of the show to chat about various topics in the aftermath of the NHL Draft and Free Agency.

In the first period of the episode, John and Dennis discuss the LA Kings' roster reshaping in free agency. They analyze the team's strategy of adding players with size, grit, and testicular fortitude to change the team's identity. They also address the concerns and expectations of fans, emphasizing the need to wait and see how the new roster performs. The conversation touches on the importance of young players like Quinton Byfield and Alex Turcotte, as well as the potential for further roster changes. They also discuss the transparency of the front office in regards to the departure of Steven Stamkos from the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The third period conversation includes In this conversation, the guys analyze the potential line combinations and positions for players like Byfield, Turcotte and Arthur Kaliyev. They also mention the impressive performances of goaltenders at the development camp and discuss the possibility of naming an MVP trophy after Roman Vopat. The conversation concludes with a lighthearted discussion about what to call Jim Hiller.

You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

Mark Seidel, Head of North American Central Scouting Independent Bureau stops by for his annual NHL Draft preview with the Mayor.

The guys talk about the Jake Guentzel chatter that won't go away, the reception to the LAK new jersey launch and their summer plans.

You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

LAK goalie prospect Hampton "Hammer" Slukynsky makes his KOTP debut.

This episode covers various topics including personal anecdotes, music, and the LA Kings' upcoming free agency decisions. The Mayor and DB discuss the possibility of the Kings signing Jake Guentzel and the challenges they would face in terms of salary cap and roster management. They also touch on the team's need for defensive help and the importance of balancing the roster with young players. Episode 195 concludes with a mention of upcoming episodes featuring draft guru Mark Seidel and discussions on the draft and free agency.

KOTP bullet points:

• The LA Kings are set to debut their new jerseys, generating excitement among fans.
• The team is entering a busy offseason, with the NHL draft and development camp on the horizon.
• The thrilling Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final showcased the excitement and drama of hockey.
• Jeremy Roenick deserves to be in the Hall of Fame based on his career accomplishments and impact on the game.
• The development camp offers an opportunity to see the Kings' top prospects in action and get a glimpse of the team's future.
• LAK home opener for the 2024-'25 season is tentatively scheduled for October 24, 2024

You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

In the first period of Episode 194, John and Dennis discuss the LA Kings' new jerseys and branding, as well as upcoming prospects and contracts. They also express their opinions on other teams' jersey designs. The discussion then ranges from
the final games at the Forum to Alex Turcotte's contract, and Jordan Spence's potential contract. They also touch on the expectations for the upcoming season and the opportunities for young players to make an impact.

The second period features a 1-on-1 with the Mayor and LAK prospect Kenny Connors.

The final period features an analysis of the performance of the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final, highlighting the importance of strong starts and physical play. The conversation concludes with predictions for the Stanley Cup champion and a preview of upcoming podcasts.

You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

The Mayor and DB discuss the trade no one saw coming -- PL Dubois for Darcy Kuemper and the ramifications from the shocking deal. LAK prospect Andre Lee returns for another appearance.

KOTP Bullet Points:

• The trade between the LA Kings and the Washington Capitals involving Pierre-Luc Dubois and Darcy Kuemper has significant implications for the Kings' roster.
• Quinton Byfield is expected to move back to center, which will likely impact Anze Kopitar's role as the team's top center.
• The Kings may need to make additional moves to address their defense, including potentially acquiring Jakob Chychrun.
• Managing risk is an important factor in player acquisitions, and the Kings need to make significant changes to improve their roster.
• An upcoming announcement will reveal a new look for the LA Kings.
• The guys have different opinions on who will win the Stanley Cup final.
• They discuss the play of certain players, particularly Connor McDavid, and the possibility of him winning the Conn Smythe Trophy.
• Upcoming episodes will feature guests discussing topics such as the NHL draft and the Kings' prospects.

You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod

The #1 KOTP guest -- LAK Director of Amateur Scouting Mark Yannetti makes his return.

In this episode, John and DB discuss various topics including their experiences attending sporting events, the upcoming NHL draft, recent additions to the LA Kings coaching staff, contract updates for players, and the excitement surrounding prospect Andre Lee. They also touch on the upcoming Stanley Cup Final and their travel plans. Mark Yannetti joins them in the second period to discuss the NHL draft and Kings prospects.

Takeaways

• The NHL draft is an exciting event that showcases the future of the league, but it's not as impactful for fans as the NFL draft due to the longer development timeline for hockey prospects.
• The LA Kings have added Newell Brown to their coaching staff, bringing experience and attention to detail.
• Contract negotiations are ongoing for players like Quinton Byfield and Alex Turcotte.
• Prospect Andre Lee has impressed with his size and physicality, making a strong case for a spot on the Kings' opening night roster.
• The upcoming Stanley Cup Final will be an exciting series, and DB will be covering the games for SiriusXM.
• Travel plans for media and teams can be challenging, especially with potential weather delays and long flights.
• Yannetti provides insights into the NHL draft and the Kings' prospects.

Sound Bites

• "The NHL draft, while it's a big deal to someone like me, it's not a big deal to the average hockey fan."
• "Andre Lee had a fantastic year in Ontario, despite missing time due to injury."
• "Akil Thomas is going to make the roster opening night without question."

You can find us on X/Twitter at @kingsofthepod