Entering this season, there was no question about what Mikey Anderson's role was going to be with the Los Angeles Kings. He was going to be the top pair for this defense but what changed very early on was who he was paired with.
The expectation was that it would be Anderson and Drew Doughty, but with Doughty's ankle injury during the preseason, the Kings had to adjust. They would go with Vladislav Gavrikov next to Anderson and it worked really well to the point that when Doughty returned, there was some questions if the Kings should split them up.
Once Doughty did return, the Kings would eventually go back to the Doughty/Anderson pair but it didn't change much for Anderson as he continued to play at a high level. He would finish the season with six goals and 18 assists (both career-highs) and finish second in ice time on the Kings behind only Vladislav Gavrikov.
Grade for Mikey Anderson's 2024-25 season with the Los Angeles Kings: A-
It is hard to imagine that Anderson just turned 26 years old, as it has felt like he has been a key part of this defense for so long. The Kings are going to potentially see some significant changes to this part of the roster over the next few years with Vladislav Gavrikov set to be a free agent this offseason and Drew Doughty under contract for only two more seasons.
Mikey Anderson may emerge as the team's top defenseman, but could also have more of a leadership role. This season, he was an alternate captain and split the responsibility with Adrian Kempe. Anze Kopitar has been the team's captain, but entering his final season, the Kings may be looking for his replacement, and Anderson could be the answer.
Overall, it was another great season for Mikey Anderson and what fans have come to expect from him.