Left winger Kristian Epperson made quite the impression over the last couple of seasons.
The third-round pick of the Los Angeles Kings in 2025 has something the Kings do not currently have. A bottom-six player with a non-stop motor and a game made for the playoffs. Mix in some offense, and you will have Epperson.
Epperson is not a big player at 6-foot and 185 pounds, but it is not the size that one should notice.
It is the play on the ice; think of a more offensive and more physical Tanner Jeanott.
His strengths include high energy, being in your face, and versatility, as he can play anywhere due to his skill set. He is a tenacious forward who plays with grit and allows his teammates to skate and create offense with the puck.
Like every hockey player in every league, he does have his weaknesses, too. His shot is lackluster and needs improvement this offseason. He takes too many risks in all three zones that could result in a penalty or goals against. He sometimes forces plays when he has little time or space, which can lead to turnovers. He is still young, and this could be worked out throughout his development. These could not be hard marks against him because his strengths outweigh his weaknesses.
Last season for the Saginaw Spirit of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), he posted 27 goals and 53 assists for 80 points and 87 penalty minutes in 58 games, showcasing his well-rounded skills. During the 2023/24 season, he played for three teams and combined for 88 games, producing 13 goals and 21 assists for 34 points and 96 penalty minutes.
For the upcoming season, Epperson has committed to the University of Denver in the NCAA. This move will help him improve his overall game and get ready for his pro debut with the American Hockey League’s (AHL) Ontario Reign, affiliate of the Kings.
His game needs fine-tuning before he can do that, but once he does, he will make a lasting impact on the organization.
He is a player to keep an eye on because he could be a game-changing player once he hits the ice with the Kings.
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