The Los Angeles Kings recently brought in some new blood behind the bench, welcoming Jim Hiller to the new role of Head Coach. They will be welcoming a familiar face to the roster, one player that could inject some energy into the lineup. Forward Viktor Arvidsson is ready to go and is awaiting the go-ahead.
Kings addition of Arvidsson could be the difference
Arvidsson has been out of action due to a back injury that needed surgery, thus placing him on long-term injured reserve on October 12, 2023. The Kings did receive $4.25 million of salary relief. he did return to practice last week and could make his 2023-24 debut this week, which could be pivotal in this weeks schedule. Los Angeles began a four-game road trip last night in Buffalo against the Sabres, which also includes games against the New Jersey Devils, Boston Bruins, and Pittsburgh Penguins.
Arvidsson is likely to play at some point this week during the road trip and may be reunited with linemates Philip Danault and Trevor Moore, two players with which he had much success last season while on the same line. With Head Coach Hiller behind the bench, he may insert Arvidsson into the second line to give the Kings two lines that can carry the play in the offensive zone.
Arvidsson is an efficient scorer who is also a net front presence and a lethal weapon on the power play. His addition is much needed but could be the only forward Los Angeles adds due to the team being strapped in cap space with the trade deadline being less than a month away. Arvidsson is in the final year of a seven-year/ $29.75 million deal.
One question remains is if Arvidsson is in the lineup then who gets pulled? Jaret Anderson-Dolan, Quinton Byfield, Alex Laferriere could be on their way out to make room for Arvidsson as he is more of a point producer than the previously three mentioned Kings forwards.
This may get Los Angeles rolling again after the 7-0 loss in Buffalo last night as the Kings are now 1-1 under the guidance of Hiller. The Kings have struggled a bit in all three zones and that is one reason why former Head Coach Todd McLellan was let go and Hiller was brought in. When he returns, he could give the team a much needed lift as he is a potential 30-goal scorer who the Kings are getting without giving up anything. Regardless, his addition is an addition the team needs right now and they need a spark in the worst way.
(photo: lakingsinsider.com; Zach Dooley) (photo: lakingsinsider.com; Zach Dooley)
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