Los Angeles Kings Sign Prospect

The Los Angeles Kings have signed Francesco Pinelli to a three-year, entry-level contract. It will begin during the 2022-23 season.

The Kings selected Pinelli with the 42nd overall pick of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. The 19-year-old served as the Kitchener Rangers' captain this season, where he had 22 goals to go along with 37 assists. With numbers like these, it is clear that he has the potential to become a solid point producer in the NHL. Now that he is officially signed, the Kings have themselves another notable prospect in their system. 

Although Pinelli signed his ELC, he will likely continue to play for Kitchener next season. The youngster needs a bit more time to develop before joining the NHL. Yet, due to the fact that he just turned 19, he will not be eligible to play in the AHL next year. 

Nevertheless, it will be intriguing to see how Pinelli progresses from here. If he reaches his full potential, the Kings should have themselves another solid forward in the future. 

Photo Credit: © Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports