The coaching search continues to expand for the Los Angeles Kings and general manager Ken Holland as the organization evaluates multiple potential candidates to become the franchise’s next head coach.
Recent reporting has suggested the Kings could explore younger coaching options during the process, a direction that could make Abbotsford Canucks AHL head coach Manny Malhotra an especially intriguing candidate to monitor.
In an appearance on the Canucks Central podcast, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman mentioned that the Toronto Maple Leafs and Kings could both show interest in Malhotra this offseason.
That report follows previous comments from David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, who suggested Los Angeles may consider pursuing a younger head coach during the organization’s search.
Other head coaching candidates that the Kings have reportedly been showing interest in this offseason are now-former LA interim head coach DJ Smith and former Vegas Golden Knights head coach Bruce Cassidy.
Malhotra also brings NHL assistant coaching experience from previous stops with the Vancouver Canucks and Toronto Maple Leafs, adding to his growing reputation as one of the league’s more respected younger coaching candidates.
He's built a strong reputation for player development at both the NHL and AHL levels, something that could appeal to a Kings organization still trying to maximize the growth of several younger core pieces. At 45 years old, Malhotra would also represent a younger and more modern coaching direction for the organization.
Malhotra also brings familiarity with the Pacific Division after spending several years within the Vancouver Canucks organization in both development and assistant coaching roles. The balance between player development and Pacific Division familiarity could make Malhotra an especially intriguing fit for a Kings organization still trying to remain competitive while continuing to develop younger talent.
His success at the AHL level also strengthens his resume as a legitimate coaching candidate on the carousel for the Kings after helping guide Abbotsford to a Calder Cup Championship in 2024.
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