Kings Future Cornerstones Give Optimism for 2024-25
The Los Angeles Kings experienced somewhat of a facelift this summer, attempting to change their culture and identity with new additions.
Joel Edmundson, Warren Foegele, and Tanner Jeannot were key additions in that attempted change by Rob Blake. While the spotlight should and undeniably will be on those players, it will come down to the two future cornerstones who will have massive opportunities to do so.
Quinton Byfield’s potential is as clear, and it’s a beacon of hope for the Kings’ future. His return to center, after a period of significant growth and development, is a major win. Even if he doesn’t reach elite levels of performance this season, his return to center is a game-changer. Offseason speculations hinted at a potential partnership between Kevin Fiala and Foegele on the wings, and the preseason has only confirmed what could be one of the most dynamic lines in the Kings’ offense.
It has been the best line for the Kings throughout the preseason, for what that’s worth. He has carried the run of play while on the ice, and while he is a traditional natural playmaker, he scored a hat trick against the Boston Bruins. The 6’5 youngster has been showcasing his hands and footwork while operating at top speed, something many NHL defenders struggle to handle. This was seen in glimpses over the last season and a half while a winger on the top line primarily working the forecheck. Now, Byfield carries the puck in the zone more regularly as the center, crossing over lanes and forcing defenders to open up.
He’s finally showcasing the tools he displayed to get drafted second overall. If he can continue his run of play from the preseason into the regular season, the Kings might be in good shape to make another run at a playoff berth. In many ways, Byfield is looking to be that missing center the Kings have been looking for, being a potential upgrade to the hole Pierre-Luc Dubois left.
Unlike Byfield, who has had a full season of NHL action plus the addition of two playoff…
