Jim Hiller's First Full Season as Kings Coach Begins Amid Goaltending Questions

The Los Angeles Kings, a professional ice hockey team in the United States, are entering the 2023-2024 season under the leadership of coach Jim Hiller, who is beginning his first full season. The team has reached the playoffs for three consecutive years but has struggled to advance past the first round since their last Stanley Cup victory in 2014. Key departures include several players such as Pierre-Luc Dubois and Cam Talbot, while the Kings have added new talent, including goaltender Darcy Kuemper and defenseman Joel Edmundson. The Kings' performance will be closely watched, especially with Drew Doughty expected to miss a significant portion of the season due to injury. Hiller has shifted the team's playing style from a 1-3-1 neutral trap to a more aggressive 1-2-2 formation, aiming to enhance offensive play. The Kings' roster features notable players like Anze Kopitar and Adrian Kempe, who are expected to lead the team offensively. Kempe was the top scorer last season, and Quinton Byfield, a promising young player, is transitioning to center after a breakout season. However, the team faces challenges, particularly in goaltending, as Kuemper's performance has been inconsistent. With strong competition in the Pacific Division from teams like Vancouver and Edmonton, the Kings may find it difficult to secure a playoff spot. General manager Rob Blake's contract is also a point of concern, as his past decisions have raised questions about the team's future direction. Overall, the Kings' upcoming season is filled with uncertainty and potential, making it a critical year for the franchise.