5 Los Angeles Kings Prospects to Watch For in 2014-15

The former University of Denver star plays a simple, defense first game that fits Darryl Sutter’s system to a tee. Look for Shore to be a great depth player as his ability to do all of the proverbial little things will translate into a long NHL career.

The former first rounder is entering his second season of pro hockey and will use his minor league seasoning to help his game translate to the NHL level. The 6-foot-4 defenseman will never be an offensive force, but his size, defensive acumen, tenacity, and hockey sense will make him a rock solid force on the blue line for years to come.

The Russian sniper is bound for his third, and likely final, year of junior hockey in the Quebec Major Junior League and has size and skill that teams covet. While he’ll need some minor league seasoning his raw talent should have Kings fans very, very excited.

The team’s 2014 first rounder has size and skill that will make him a great fit with the Kings for years to come. Having said that Kempe will need at least another two seasons in Sweden before he is ready to compete for a job in the NHL. Given the Kings’ depth Kempe can take all the time he needs to develop into a very intriguing player.

The postseason hero is still technically a prospect despite recording 12 points in 24 playoff games in the Kings’ Stanley Cup run. Look for the former Barrie Colt to have a great first full season in the NHL as his deft playmaking and uncanny hockey sense will make him a candidate for the Calder Trophy as he has played few enough games to be eligible.