The Los Angeles Kings, despite their storied history and a recent blockbuster trade, continue to grapple with solidifying their place in a city that often seems to prioritize other forms of entertainment. While the Kings have achieved success, including Stanley Cup wins in 2012 and 2014, they still struggle to capture the sustained attention and fervent support that defines Los Angeles' major sports teams.
Los Angeles presents a unique challenge for any sports franchise. The city is synonymous with sunshine, the entertainment industry, and a vibrant outdoor lifestyle. The Kings consistently face competition from the allure of beaches, movie premieres, and the overlapping seasons of baseball and basketball. The Dodgers, a national MLB brand, and the Lakers, a legendary NBA franchise, command global attention, making it difficult for the Kings to carve out a similar level of prominence.
As of February 5, 2026, the Kings hold a 23-18-14 record and occupy a wildcard spot in the Western Conference. Offensively, the team has struggled, ranking near the bottom of the league in goals scored. The Kings' power play has also been a point of concern, with the team struggling to convert opportunities. Recently, the Kings have also had difficulty closing out games, with a troubling number of overtime losses. They are close to setting an NHL record for most overtime losses in a season, a milestone that underscores their inability to secure crucial points in a competitive Western Conference playoff race.
To address their offensive woes and inject new energy into the team, General Manager Ken Holland orchestrated a significant trade, acquiring star winger Artemi Panarin from the New York Rangers. The Kings sent forward prospect Liam Greentree and a conditional third-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft to the Rangers in exchange for Panarin, and promptly signed him to a two-year, $22 million contract extension. Panarin's arrival is expected to provide an immediate offensive spark. His playmaking abilities and offensive creativity could transform the Kings' attack and create the highlight-reel moments that capture the attention of the Los Angeles market. Holland emphasized that Panarin was the team's primary target and expressed his belief that Panarin's offensive capabilities will integrate well with the team’s existing structure.
The acquisition of Panarin reflects the Kings' commitment to competing for a Stanley Cup. The team has struggled to advance in the playoffs in recent years, with four consecutive first-round exits at the hands of the Edmonton Oilers. By adding a player of Panarin's caliber, the Kings are signaling their intent to make a deep postseason run and re-establish themselves as a top contender in the Western Conference.
Despite the challenges, the Kings have a dedicated fanbase and a core of talented players. Veteran leaders like Anze Kopitar, who is retiring at the end of the season, and Drew Doughty provide experience and stability, while players like Adrian Kempe and Kevin Fiala contribute offensively. Brandt Clarke has also emerged as a key player on the blue line.
The Kings' journey to capture the hearts of Los Angeles sports fans is an ongoing process. The addition of Artemi Panarin represents a bold step towards becoming a more visible and exciting team. To truly succeed in this market, the Kings must not only win but also cultivate a captivating brand that resonates with the city's diverse and demanding audience.