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The Los Angeles Kings have built their core nucleus around size and physicality which has allowed them to be one of the most successful teams in the NHL over the last five years. This year after enduring the humiliating abnormality of missing the playoffs the Kings will select 14th in the draft and be looking to add another piece to the puzzle as they look to build upon their recent successes. While there will surely be a number of potentially great players, the best fit for the Kings is Nick Merkley of the WHL’s Kelowna Rockets.
Merkley may not have the size that induces fear into opponents, but his unique mix of grit and offensive abilities make him the almost perfect fit for a Kings squad that relies on both. What I like about Merkley’s game is he as comfortable battling for position in front of the net and in the “dirty areas” as he is making a silky smooth pass or deke. That rare mixture of snarl and creativity translates well to the NHL and makes him one of the most intriguing prospects in the draft.
It’s worth noting Merkly in all likelihood won’t be ready to join the Kings in the next couple years as I think two more years in Kelowna, followed by an AHL apprenticeship would be what’s best for his development. The Kings have an underrated group of prospects and would surely benefit from adding Merkley to their ranks. L.A. better hit this pick out of the park, because it goes without saying the team hopes it’s a long time before they are picking this high in the draft.
