Los Angeles Kings: Top 3 young players to watch next season

2. Gabriel Vilardi

Gabriel Vilardi has had a less than straight road to the NHL. Originally drafted by the Kings in the first round of the 2017 NHL Draft, Vilardi has since suffered numerous setbacks thanks to injuries. He missed nearly a year due to back issues, but last season, he made his NHL debut.

In a 10 game cup of coffee, Vilardi scored three goals and seven points. He ended the season on a three-game point streak, picking up four points in his last three games. If healthy, Vilardi should see a fairly significant role with the Kings next season.

He averaged 12:51 of playing time last season and I’d be shocked if he doesn’t see at least a minute increase per game. The Kings lack dynamic players and, when healthy, Vilardi has shown he has the potential to be one.

Blake Lizotte (another fun young player to watch) is currently penciled in as the Kings second-line center for next season. But don’t be surprised if Vilardi challenges him for that role very soon. The Kings will likely take things easy with him, but if he stays healthy (knock on wood), it shouldn’t surprise anyone if Viladri contends for the Calder Trophy. His skating needs to improve, but his skill and hockey IQ are good enough to overcome his somewhat pedestrian skating abilities.