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3 disappointing LA Kings players who are bounce-back candidates for next season feat. Darcy Kuemper
The Los Angeles Kings had a better-than-expected season last year. Many analysts didn’t expect the LA Kings to challenge for a playoff spot. Yet, they did. They finished third in the Pacific Division, setting them up for a first-round showdown with the Edmonton Oilers.
Despite the disappointing first-round playoff defeat, there’s plenty of reason for optimism in Hollywood. Nevertheless, three players stand out as having had subpar years last season. But with a new season rolling around, these players could turn things around and potentially have a great campaign.
Here's a closer look at three underperforming LA Kings players who will look to bounce back next season.
3 disappointing LA Kings players who are bounce-back candidates for 2024-25
#3. Arthur Kaliyev
The former second-round pick posted a career-high 28 points in 56 games during 2022-23. As such, the expectation was for him to improve on that point total last season. Some analysts believed he could top 20 goals and 50 points.
However, Kaliyev regressed in 2023-24. He registered 15 points in 51 for the LA Kings. Overall inconsistent play brought Kaliyev’s production down, questioning his ability to remain in the NHL.
It’s worth pointing out that Kaliyev is only 23 years old. As such, there is room for him to grow and develop. So, there’s cause for optimism as a full season of solid, consistent play could help catapult Kaliyev into a more prominent role on the Kings’ roster.
#2. Kevin Fiala
By most standards, Fiala hardly had a down year. But a deeper look at his numbers shows a slight regression. On the whole, Fiala matched his 2022-23 point totals in 2023-24. In fact, he even scored more goals last season than the year before.
However, in 2022-23, Fiala registered 72 points in 69 games, making him more than a point-per-game player. Last season, Fiala registered 73 points in all 82 games, bringing his points-per-game average down.
Nevertheless, there is no reason to believe Fiala can’t return to a point-per-game pace for the LA Kings. He is projected to play on a talented line with center Phillip Danault and the dynamic Trevor Moore. Don’t be surprised if Moore explodes and has a 30 or even 40-goal season as the Kings continue to make strides.
#1. Darcy Kuemper
Kuemper had a down year with the Washington Capitals last season. He started in 30 games, posting a 3.31 GAA and a .890 SV%. The numbers paled in comparison to his first year in DC, not to mention his 2021-22 campaign in Colorado.
But a change of scenery may be just what Kuemper needs. Kuemper was the main piece in the Pierre-Luc Dubois deal. Now, Kuemper gets another shot at being a number-one goaltender. There is virtually no competition for him, meaning Kuemper will get every opportunity to excel in Hollywood.
Barring injuries, the LA Kings should get about 50 starts from Kuemper while hopefully playing more like his career numbers. The Kings hope that last season in Washington was just an outlier for Kuemper.
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