Los Angeles Kings Make Big Roster Change

The Los Angeles Kings have sent forward Gabriel Vilardi down to the Ontario Reign.

The @LAKings have assigned forward Gabriel Vilardi to the @ontarioreign.

— LA Kings PR (@LAKingsPR) November 16, 2021

This is certainly not what the Kings had planned for Vilardi this season. The team had high expectations for the 22-year-old center and he was seen as a breakout candidate. However, that now has been put on hold after a slow start. In seven games this season, he has an assist and a -5 rating. He also hasn't played since October 28th against the Winnipeg Jets.

The Kings selected Vilardi with the 11th overall pick of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft, so they want him to reach his potential and become a top-six forward. Perhaps some time in the AHL can help spark his confidence.

In 54 games last season, Vilardi scored 10 goals and recorded 23 points. He also had seven points in 10 games during the 2019-20 season. Therefore, he's certainly capable of producing more than he has this season. Let's see if he's able to regroup from here and get called up in the near future.

Photo Credit: © Jeff Le-USA TODAY Sports