3 Los Angeles Kings Prospects Expected To Get NHL Playing Time In 2024-25

The Los Angeles Kings will look to improve on last season and push deeper than the first round in the playoffs, but they didn't do a whole lot to get themselves there. It will make it even more difficult with some injuries, but having some talented young players expected to step in or play some games will help. These are three Kings prospects who should get NHL playing time this season.

Brandt Clarke

Brandt Clarke did everything he could at the lower level and forced himself into the NHL after putting up 46 points in 50 AHL games as a defenseman. His role just became even more important this season as Drew Doughty is expected to be out month-to-month. Clarke will not only make the team after just 25 games played over the past two seasons, he will be thrust into the top power-play role and possibly the number one right defense. He is very gifted offensively and will play a pivotal role in the Kings' success.

Alex Turcotte

2023-24 was the season that Alex Turcotte finally took the right step and broke into the league. A very good AHL season and 20 games in the NHL mixed with some roster spots available should all but secure his spot on the opening night roster of the Kings. He didn't do a ton in the NHL, scoring one goal and recording four points in those 20 games, but he will have a place in the bottom-6 to start improving. The Kings need him to step up and he will for sure be playing games for the Kings this season.

Erik Portillo

Goalie prospect Erik Portillo will be looking to get into at least one NHL game this season. The Kings' goaltending doesn't look very promising even though there are three NHL options to work with. At the very least, the 6'6 massive goalie prospect should see a game or two, especially if there's struggles in net. The team has been looking for who can eventually take over the crease and Portillo is working his way to being that guy. He finished his AHL rookie season with a 2.5 GAA and .918 SV%.