5 Los Angeles Kings to watch during the Rookie Faceoff

Jared Woolley

Jared Woolley is a defenseman who was selected in the sixth round of the 2024 NHL Draft after splitting last season with the St. Thomas Stars in the GOJHL and the London Knights in the OHL. EliteProspects.com wrote the following about Woolley:

"Defensively, Woolley’s overpowering. He throws big hits at his blue line, beats down opponents in front of his net, sets picks, and traps attackers along the boards. In transition, he’s always looking for the high-value breakout pass and deceives opponents to get it. He joins rushes, walks in space before firing, and tries to set up chances around the slot."

It will be interesting to see if he is able to continue to bring that power and physicality in this tournament.

Francesco Pinelli

For any fans who follow the Ontario Reign, they know this next player in forward Francesco Pinelli. He was the second-round pick by the Kings in the 2021 NHL Draft but last season was his first with the Reign. He played in 67 games with 13 goals and seven assists.

One thing in particular worth watching during this tournament is where Pinelli lines up as he played both center and wing last year. He will begin the season with the Reign but depending on how the next few months go, he might have a chance to see some time in the NHL with the Kings.