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LA Kings: Three can’t-miss breakout candidates to watch next year

By Ryan Sikes

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 05: Gabriel Vilardi #42 of the Los Angeles Kings shoots the puck against Frederik Andersen #31 of the Toronto Maple Leafs during the second period at Staples Center on March 05, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 05: Gabriel Vilardi #42 of the Los Angeles Kings shoots the puck against Frederik Andersen #31 of the Toronto Maple Leafs during the second period at Staples Center on March 05, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) /
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LA Kings Gabe Vilardi
(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

3. Gabe Vilardi

Finally healthy, we all saw what Gave Vilardi was capable of. The former 11th overall pick in 2017 scored 29 goals with 32 assists in his draft year for Windsor of the OHL.

After another season in the OHL, Vilardi transitioned to Ontario for the 2018-2019 season. He lasted just four games before being shut down with a back injury.

"“I feel like a completely different person, if I’m being honest, than I was last year,” Vilardi said, via LA Times. “It’s been a long road, but I’m happy I’m here.”"

He had a heckuva year in Ontario last year, scoring 9 goals with 16 goals when the Kings promoted him to the NHL. And he made an impact right off the bat.

In the final 10 games, Vilardi scored 7 points (3 G, 4 A), leaving many to wonder how many points he could have finished with if not for the shutdown.

Next. Three players who could sneak onto the Opening Night roster. dark

The 21-year-old is penciled in as the 2C for this season, and he’ll be playing alongside his linemate in Ontario in Martin Frk. The duo was lightning in a bottle and could provide some much-needed production for the second line. With enough production, Vilardi could also have a shot at the Calder Trophy.

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