Los Angeles Kings: Top 8 prospects worth getting excited about

6. Arthur Kaliyev

The 19-year-old Arthur Kaliyev is the most controversial of the eight prospects on this list. Despite a 51 goal, 102-point 2018-19 season with the Hamilton Bulldogs of the OHL, the Staten Island, New York forward saw himself fall to the 2nd round (33 overall) of the 2019 NHL Entry Draft. This was due to the fact that despite his clear offensive talent, his defensive game leaves plenty to be desired.

This past season saw Kaliyev continue to excel offensively, putting up 44 goals and 98 points in just 57 games. He also represented Team USA at the 2020 World Juniors where he yet again impressed with four goals and six points in five games.

While there is clearly improvement needed away from the puck, there is no denying his clear skill. While Kaliyev may be given one more season in the AHL to sort out his defensive game, the Kings also need scoring and may give him an opportunity to crack the opening day lineup.

5. Tyler Madden

When the Kings decided to trade Tyler Toffoli to the Vancouver Canucks this past season, the biggest piece they received was 2018 3rd round pick (68 overall) Tyler Madden.

The son of former NHLer John Madden had a fantastic sophomore season for Northeastern University, putting up 19 goals and 37 points in just 27 games. This was a big jump from his already impressive freshman campaign where he scored 12 goals and added 16 helpers in 37 games.

The one concern regarding Madden is his size. Height isn’t a big issue as he stands at 5-foot-11, but he is currently listed at just 150 pounds. The soon to be 21-year-old will have to put on weight before he is ready to make an impact at the NHL level, but aside from that doesn’t seem very far away. He is an extremely promising prospect for the Kings.