DJ Smith (former Los Angeles Kings interim head coach)
Every indication from Holland and the Kings early this offseason and in the past few weeks has pointed to Los Angeles considering now-former interim head coach DJ Smith as a legitmiate candidate to be the next full-time head coach next season.
He brought a spark to the team late this past regular season down the stretch, but Los Angeles may still need a coach capable of elevating the team into a legitimate playoff contender.
The possibility of Smith receiving the full-time job would likely generate mixed reactions across the fan base this offseason. Smith brings previous NHL head coaching experience from his time with the Ottawa Senators from 2020-24.
Smith helped stabilize the Kings late in the season, guiding Los Angeles to a strong finish and a postseason berth while posting a points percentage above .600 over his final 23 games behind the bench.
The Kings may ultimately benefit more from pursuing a proven coach capable of implementing a stronger offensive structure while continuing to develop the organization’s younger core.
The Kings also failed to advance beyond the first round after the coaching change, leaving lingering questions about the team’s long-term ceiling under Smith. Los Angeles may also prioritize a coaching hire capable of improving the team’s struggling special teams moving forward.
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