Rather than acquiring a long-term, top-six center over the summer, management opted to sign a pair of older veterans to anchor the depth behind Quinton Byfield, who now faces the most time-sensitive phase of his NHL career.
Quinton Byfield Steps Into Top-Line Center Role
It’s Quinton Byfield’s time to step up as the team’s undisputed top center. Last season, Byfield led all Kings centers in time on ice by averaging a career-high 20:01 per game. He also netted a career-best 24 goals, though he finished just shy of his third consecutive 50-point campaign. While he has historically posted strong finishes to his campaigns, those surges have frequently followed slow starts. Without Kopitar acting as a safety blanket, the organization needs Byfield to immediately cement the status he held when drafted rather than waiting for further offensive progression. Team observers note that a production floor of 50 points will no longer suffice for a player logging top-line minutes.
Veteran Additions Erik Haula and Scott Laughton Shore Up Depth
To support the transition down the middle, the Kings added veteran centers Erik Haula and Scott Laughton. Haula signed a two-year contract over the summer, arriving after matching Kopitar’s output with 38 points last season. Having logged 35-plus points in four of his last five years, Haula provides a reliable two-way presence capable of playing up and down the lineup. Meanwhile, Laughton returns after re-signing on July 1 following a trade-deadline acquisition from Toronto. Laughton maintained a 31-point pace over 82 games last year while establishing himself as a vital locker-room leader.
Training Camp Battles for Bottom-Six Center Spots
Behind the top trio, Alex Turcotte and Samuel Helenius enter training camp facing lingering questions about their ability to secure everyday roles. Neither player fully cemented a spot last year despite showing occasional flashes of potential. They are joined by newcomer Lane Pederson, who signed on July 1 boasting extensive AHL and NHL experience, alongside AHL standout Kenny Connors. Connors produced a strong 0.63 points-per-game clip with the Ontario Reign last season and earned heavy trust from head coach Andrew Lord, though his waiver-exempt status adds a hurdle to his NHL roster bid.
Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on Adrian Kempe’s deployment during training camp. While new head coach Peter Laviolette approached Kempe about a potential shift to center, the organization indicates he will likely open the year on the wing alongside top-tier talent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who replaced Anze Kopitar as the Kings’ top center?
The Kings did not acquire a long-term top-six center to replace Kopitar. Instead, Quinton Byfield is stepping into the primary center role.
What are the expectations for Quinton Byfield this season?
Management and coaching staff expect Byfield to exceed his previous 50-point plateaus and command top-line minutes consistently from the start of the season.
Who did the Kings sign at center during the offseason?
The Kings added veterans Erik Haula and Lane Pederson via free agency while re-signing Scott Laughton.
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