NHL.com: Top prospects for LA Kings

NHL.com is providing in-depth prospect analysis for each of its 30 teams throughout August. Today, the LA Kings.

Trades and poor position in the NHL Draft have hindered the Los Angeles Kings from building their organizational depth. They have not had a first-round pick the past two years, and no player they’ve drafted since 2012 has played for them in the NHL.

Michael Futa, vice president of hockey operations and director of player personnel, recognizes the challenge but pointed out that the Kings’ former American Hockey League affiliate in Manchester won the 2015 Calder Cup with a roster loaded with young players, not veterans, and they’ve been able to find productive players in the second round, including forward Tyler Toffoli in 2010. 

“Our team is littered with prospects,” Futa said. “Whether they’re top-six forwards or not, they’re [ready to compete for jobs in the NHL]. I think the time is now for some of these guys to get rewarded for the work that they’ve put in.”

Here are the Kings’ top five prospects, according to NHL.com:

1. Adrian Kempe, LW

How acquired: Selected with No. 29 pick in 2014 NHL Draft

Last season: Ontario (AHL): 55 GP, 11-17-28

The Kings are high on Kempe, who produced as a 19-year-old in the AHL last season, his second in North America, and has played in two IIHF World Junior Championships for Sweden.

“He’s opened our eyes every time we watch him,” Futa said.

But the Kings won’t rush Kempe (6-foot-2, 187 pounds), who turns 20 on Sept. 13 and is continuing to adjust to the North American game.

“He’s made a great impact, but he needs to be bigger and stronger,” Futa said.

Projected NHL arrival: Next season

2. Michael Mersch, LW

How acquired: Selected with No. 110 pick in 2011 NHL Draft

Last …

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