In free agency this summer, general manager Ken Holland and the Los Angeles Kings didn't pursue the biggest names on the open market.
Holland and the Kings instead focused on adding proven and experienced veterans who addressed specific needs and weaknesses throughout the roster lineup. Even though none of the Kings' free-agent additions were headline-grabbing signings, many newcomers have the ability to make an immediate impact during the upcoming 2026-27 season.
The Kings used most of the cap space available this offseason in free agency to address immediate needs. But the Kings are also still expected to at least kick the tires on the possibility of trading for a left-shot, puck-moving defenseman and/or a true No. 1 center late this offseason.
These newcomers address some of the Los Angeles Kings' biggest needs
Here are three new Kings' free agent signings who could make an immediate impact in the 2026-27 season.
Erik Haula, C
Former Nashville Predator Erik Haula and Scott Laughton were the two veteran centers that Holland and the Kings signed in free agency this offseason to bolster the need in the middle of the lineup.
Haula can help the Kings replace some of the depth, leadership, and two-way versatility that the team lost following the retirement of Anze Kopitar. He brings value on special teams on the penalty kill, and he can contribute on the power play as a third center if he's asked to step up and fill that role this upcoming season for the Kings.
On the defensive end of the ice, Haula is a reliable and consistent presence who is capable of handling some difficult assignments in the zone.
Having both Laughton and Haula anchoring the center position with more proven experience and veteran voices in the locker room also helps ease some of the pressure on Quinton Byfield this upcoming season. These veteran centers can help mentor and develop Byfield with his two-way game this season.
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