There’s almost nothing left to say, yet there’s plenty to be discussed.
A big trade, a devastating injury, a much-needed break… they’re all significant stories from the month of February. However, little has really made a significant difference. In fact, the past few days would suggest things are actually getting worse for coach Jim Hiller and the LA Kings.
While a change behind the bench seemed like a logical next step earlier this season, management was insistent on sticking with Hiller. As that option was essentially removed from the table — signs publicly and privately have indicated he will remain as coach through the end of the season (likely for monetary reasons, if nothing else) — it’s come down to the roster. In a season that’s gone terribly wrong since Thanksgiving weekend, the early 2026 mission has been clear: could LA’s collection of misfit toys somehow be assembled in a way that would produce consistent results over the final few months and salvage their playoff hopes?
Defensively, the numbers were there for most of the season. That’s no longer the case.
Offensively, individual talent is present, but not enough of them fit together in a complimentary manner to make cohesive and consistently productive line combinations. Further, the need for a right shot center is only one item on a laundry list of concerns.
One man’s eternal optimism does not appear to be universally shared by the franchise’s most loyal followers at the moment. Hiller can say he still believes; results are saying quite the opposite.
Here are postgame thoughts from Hiller, Anze Kopitar, and Mikey Anderson following the team’s 8-1 loss to Edmonton on Thursday:
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