Explore every episode of the podcast KINGS OF THE PODCAST

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The guys saddle up for one more episode. Topics include:

• NHL offseason strategy and signings
• LAK roster and line-up analysis
• Player contract structures and bonuses
• Trade market and league-wide player movement
• Draft coverage and future prospects

The guest is Josh Libfield, an unexpected star of the NHL Draft in Buffalo.

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It's been a week!

The guys put a bow on KOTP NHL Draft coverage and surprisingly, DB has a draft board if LAK keeps the 17th overall pick.

The Mayor breaks down the process and other names heard for the first round and breaks news about Opening Night in September.

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The unquestioned number one KOTP guest, LAK Director of Amateur Scouting Mark Yannetti returns to preview the 2026 NHL Draft.

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In the third installment of our NHL Draft Preview series, Chris Byrne, LAK Director of Amateur Scouting covering Canada discusses his process and observations.

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Continuing with our NHL Draft Preview series, LAK US Director of Amateur Scouting Teddy Belisle makes his KOTP debut.

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TSN and Sirius XM NHL Network Radio analyst Craig Button joins the Mayor for the KOTP NHL Draft Preview

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With DB back home after his Stanley Cup Final duties for Sirius XM NHL Network, the guys take their first deep dive into the LAK off season. Among the topics they tackle:

- Canes Capture Cup
- Laviolette
- Assistant coaches
- Depth chart holes/questions
- Doughty extension
- You want rumors, we got rumors -- Larkin, Trocheck, Elias Pettersson, Gavrikov and Nurse
- Ontario Reign organizational update

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A full 60 from The Mayor and DB!

• The guys reflect on the career of Anze Kopitar
• Ontario Reign coach Andrew Lord returns
• A discussion regarding the future of interim coach DJ Smith
• Trade speculation from The Mayor
• Parade suggestion from DB

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LAK defense prospect Henry Brzustewicz makes his KOTP debut.

The guys discuss all the first round Stanley Cup Playoffs matchup in the first period and focus on LAK/COL in the third period.

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• Expect the unexpected in this LAK season. From left for dead with 7 games left in the season to clinching a fifth consecutive playoff berth with 2 games remaining. The guys reflect on how and why it happened.
• John and Dennis discuss their ballots for the season ending awards.
• The Mayor gives customary Ontario Reign recap.

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A blast from the past.

A rare interview with former LAK pivot Jason Allison is featured.

In the world of hockey, some players leave a lasting impression despite their brief careers. One such player is Jason Allison, whose time with the LA Kings, although limited to just 99 regular-season games, was marked by significant contributions and memorable moments.

Jason joined the Mayor for an insightful 1-on-1.

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The LA Kings are still in the chase for the Stanley Cup Playoffs with 15 game remaining in the NHL regular season.

The guys discuss:

- The Roller Coaster Season

- The World Cup of Hockey

- Jack Hughes' Golden Goal Puck

- Ontario Reign update

- The stretch drive schedule

- DB's Fantasy Trade

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With one day remaining before the NHL Trade Deadline, John and Dennis return to chat about:

• The firing of Jim Hiller and interim coaching decisions involving DJ Smith
• The potential impact of trades, including Kopitar (not really), Perry, and prospects like Jared Wright
• The team’s playoff pursuit: standings, remaining schedule, and what it means to "start winning"
• Prospect updates: Ryan Conmy, Kenny Connors, Henry Brzustewicz and others
• Roster and contract outlook: Cody Ceci, Joel Edmondson, and buyout strategies
• College hockey prospects in the NCAA tournament and their relation to NHL futures
• The significance of upcoming games versus divisional rivals toward playoff chances

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The LA Kings enter the Olympic break on the outside looking in for the Stanley Cup Playoffs but will return with a major weapon not seen in Los Angeles for a very long time.

Ep. 257 main focus is on the Artemi Panarin trade but the conversation expands to:

• Ontario Rain and Player Development
• Kings' Roster Dynamics and Future Moves
• Defensive Strategies and Player Roles
• Goaltending Insights and Future Considerations
• Goaltending Dynamics: Kuemper vs. Forsberg
• DB reimaging the LAK top six forward group with bold moves
• Trade Deadline strategies
• International Hockey: The Olympic Outlook

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It's not a Do or Die six game road trip but it sure is a DO trip....they DO need to win games.

In this episode...

The Mayor and DB discuss:

• Roster health updates
• Jonathan Quick's legacy
• The LAK Mount Rushmore
• Addressing the center position depth chart
• DB on self-reflection, accountability and he reads a Mean Tweet!

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Buckle up for this one KOTP fans!

In this episode, the guys discuss the LA Kings' current season, including a midseason review, player evaluations, and insights from the World Juniors Tournament. They address injury updates, coaching critiques, and trade speculations while also touching on potential jersey changes and team branding.

Talking points include:

• A largely disappointing season first half for the LA Kings.
• Despite struggles, the Kings are still in playoff contention.
• The World Juniors Tournament showcased the Kings' strong prospect pool.
• Coaching decisions are under scrutiny as the team struggles to close out games.
• Trade rumors are heating up, particularly around Quinton Byfield.
• The Kings are considering jersey changes to incorporate a purple crown design.
• The team needs to improve its offensive output moving forward.
• The upcoming games are critical for the Kings' playoff hopes

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In this episode of the Kings of the Podcast, hosts John and Dennis discuss the latest developments surrounding the LA Kings, including the absence of Anze Kopitar from practice, Phil Danault's trade to Montreal, and the implications of Marc Bergevin's exit from the organization. They delve into the upcoming trade deadline, the coaching status of Jim Hiller, and the excitement surrounding the World Junior Tournament featuring Kings prospects.

The conversation also touches on the team's performance, upcoming games, and the financial troubles of FanDuel Sports Network, which could impact the Kings' broadcasts. Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the Kings and what fans can expect moving forward.

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Another LAK prospect, winger Jared Wright makes his KOTP debut!

Also:

• A power play game winning goal at home? It's true and DB doesn't think the LAK PP is THAT bad.
• Fans should expect low-scoring games as part of the team's DNA.
• Kings are in the thick of the Pacific Division race.
• Lineup changes are crucial for optimizing player performance.
• Defensive pairings are flexible and may change based on game situations.
• Jacob Moverare is an unsung hero for the Kings' defense.

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In this conversation, the guys discuss the events and expectations surrounding the Adrian Kempe contract extension and the implications for the team's center position.

They emphasize the need for the team to find a suitable second center, highlighting the challenges and considerations involved in player roles and team strategy.

The Drew Doughty injury is discussed and the impact across the LAK blueline,

The opportunity the schedule after the completion of the sixth and final game of the road provides to solidify the team's standing in both the Pacific Division and Western Conference.

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It's early but not too early to evaluate the first month of LAK's season.

Among the things DB and The Mayor discuss:

• A final look at the World Series
• Hiller has a strong admiration for Joel Armia.
• Corey Perry's role in the LA Kings was unexpected.
• Brandt Clarke time-on-ice, a recurring theme
• The (goal scoring) hole in the middle
• The reuniting of Brian Dumoulin and Cody Ceci

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The semiquincentennial episode opens with MLB talk! (of course)

And then...

• LAK performance through 10 games
• Goaltending and defensive strategies
• Penalty killing and faceoffs
• Injury updates and team depth
• Potential call-ups and roster adjustments
• Ontario Reign update
• Upcoming matchups and trap game concerns

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With DB somewhere in the Welsh countryside, The Mayor sits down with new LAK play-by-play announcer, John Kelly.

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Former LAK General Manager Rob Blake returns to KOTP for a 1-on-1 with The Mayor.

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Summary

In this episode, John and Dennis discuss Dennis's upcoming trip to Europe. They delve into the latest injury updates for the Kings, particularly focusing on Corey Perry and Darcy Kuemper's situations. The conversation shifts to the goaltending dynamics and roster decisions as the team navigates early season challenges. They analyze the Kings' performance, discuss Anze Kopitar's status, and reflect on the sentimental aspects of facing Sidney Crosby. The episode concludes with discussions on the Kings' prospects and the challenges of their upcoming road trip, alongside a debate on Hall of Fame considerations for notable players.

Takeaways:

• Corey Perry is making progress in his recovery.
• The Kings face tough roster decisions with injuries.
• Goaltending dynamics are shifting with Kuemper's injury.
• Kopitar's status is uncertain but not serious.
• The Kings' prospects are showing promise this season.
• The upcoming road trip presents significant challenges.
• Crosby and the Penguins are nearing the end of an era.

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Summary

In this episode of Kings of the Podcast, John and Dennis dive into the early stages of the 2025-26 NHL season, analyzing the LA Kings' performance in their first two games, discussing the impact of recent executive changes, and highlighting the prospects in the AHL. They provide insights into the team's defensive strategies, player performances, and upcoming challenges against the Winnipeg Jets and Minnesota Wild.

Pod Highlights:

• The Kings started the season with mixed results in their first two games.
• Marco Sturm's success with the Boston Bruins is noted.
• The AHL season is launching with a strong roster of Kings prospects.
• Defensive performance is crucial for success this season.
• The resilience in the comeback against the Golden Knights.
• Upcoming games against the Jets and Wild present new challenges.
• The team is still finding its chemistry early in the season.
• The Kings' offense needs to improve to support the defense.
• A Mayor's Meetup Watch Party!

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With the season on the horizon, the guys discuss the final LAK roster spot up for grabs and take a swing at seasonal over/under total and league-wide true and false questions.

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It's Season Six (!) for Kings Of The Podcast and DB and The Mayor return with a full episode as LAK Training Camp opens.

In this episode of Kings of the Podcast, John and Dennis discuss the exciting kickoff of the NHL season, focusing on the retirement announcement of Anze Kopitar, reflections on his legacy, and the implications for the LA Kings. They delve into the potential candidates for the next captain, Adrian Kempe's contract situation, and Drew Doughty's expectations for the upcoming season. The conversation also touches on team dynamics, playoff potential, and the importance of progression this season for the Kings.

Takeaways:

• Kopitar's retirement marks the end of an era for the Kings.
• Adrian Kempe's contract talks are ongoing, with hopes for a long-term deal.
• Drew Doughty feels confident about the team's depth and defense this season.
• DB's "Residency"

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In a fitting conclusion to our Summer Series the number one KOTP guest, LAK Director of Amateur Scouting Mark Yannetti returns to answer listener questions.

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One of KOTP's favorites, Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel returns!

Also,

• 8 2/3
• DB on the road again!
• Liam Greentree update

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This episode welcomes back two KOTP favorites, punk rocker Greg Hetson and the one and only, comedian Earl Skakel.

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In the newest episode of the KOTP Summer Series, former LAK defenseman Jordan Spence joins to discuss his time in Los Angeles and what lies ahead in Ottawa

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The Summer Series continues with an interview with Grant Sluknysky, brother of LAK goaltending prospect Hampton.

Also,

• DB chats about the NHL/NHLPA European Player Media Tour in Milan
• The continuing Connor McDavid chatter coming out of Edmonton
• Kempe still not signed

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The Summer Series continues with two KOTP favorites!

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In the second edition of KOTP's Summer Series John Bush, lead signer for Armored Saint and Anthrax stops in.

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Shane Malloy of Hockey Prospects Radio returns to discuss the 2025 LAK Draft in the initial installment of the KOTP Summer Series!

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The new coach of the Ontario Reign, Andrew Lord makes his KOTP debut.

Also:
- DB back on the grid
- What is UNO?
- Ozzy/Oasis
- CBA talk
- @CapWages Trade Builder

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It's over two hours of everything you'd want in an LAK podcast.

- The top rated KOTP guest, LAK Director of Amateur Scouting Mark Yannetti returns for his look at the 2025 Draft.

- The guys go chapter and verse on Ken Holland's July 1 Opus

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The viral sensation from the final pick of the 2025 NHL Draft, Jeremy makes his KOTP debut.

Oh yeah, the guys discuss the Jordan Spence trade, too.

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It's been a minute since the guys last episode...it's because they've been world travelers!

After a preamble about their sojourns, DB and The Mayor talk Cup Final, Draft and Free Agency.

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It's been a minute so the boys are bringing you TWO HOURS of content!

• DB at the Stanley Cup Final
• What Marco Sturm's departure means to LAK
• Free agency and trade outlook

Shane Malloy of Hockey Prospects Radio on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio joins the Mayor to talk all things NHL Draft and more!

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One of the hot candidates for open NHL coaching jobs, Ontario Reign Coach Marco Sturm returns to KOTP to chat with The Mayor about the prospects in the LAK pipeline. The guys discuss the second and third round of the Stanley Cup playoffs as well.

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The LA Kings new Vice President and General Manager makes his debut and the guys talk about the ramifications of the hire of the 10th GM in franchise history.

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In the aftermath of another Los Angeles Kings bitter playoff loss to the Edmonton Oilers, the guys discuss the departure of General Manager Rob Blake and the work ahead for the team President Luc Robitaille.

Major topics:

• Dean Lombardi's tenure vs. Blake length of tenure
• The prospective timeline of Blake's departure
• The status of Coach Jim Hiller
• The pool of potential candidates

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The LA Kings roll into Edmonton with a two games to none series lead on the Oilers and the guys recap the wins in Los Angeles and the challenges of Game 3.

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As the days wind down on his 44-year, Hall of Fame career and with his final call of Stanley Cup playoffs games just ahead, LAK broadcasting icon Nick Nickson joins KOTP.

Also:

• A Mayor review of Coachella and AC/DC at the Rose Bowl
• Discussion of LAK team awards
• Predictions for all eight opening round Stanley Cup Playoffs series

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With the Los Angeles Kings clinching a playoff spot for the fourth consecutive season, what is still to be determined is who they will face in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

DB and The Mayor discuss the team's strong close to the regular season in addition to:

• Ovi 895.
• A prospects update by The Mayor.
• Drew Doughty's injury management for the team's playoff success.
• Andrei Kuzmenko's impact on the Kings has been significant and positive.
• Contract extensions.
• The offside review rule remains a contentious topic among fans.
• And we take listener questions!

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LAK winger Alex Laferriere returns to KOTP!

Also in this episode:

• The stretch run
• A new Quinton Byfield narrative?
• Change in the 2025 Rookie Tournament
• Update on the upcoming college hockey playoffs
• The importance of veteran leadership

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LAK forward Alex Turcotte returns to KOTP to discuss his first full NHL season.

Also in this episode:

• A look back at the week that was and a look ahead to the LAK two game road trip.
• Kings prospects are showing promise, with several expected to turn pro soon.
• The Kings need to improve their road performance to succeed in the playoffs.
• Home ice advantage is crucial for playoff success.
• Quinton Byfield and Kevin Fiala are keys to the team's recent success.
• Consistency in the lineup is essential as the playoffs approach.
• The Kings are well-positioned for a strong playoff run if they maintain their current form.

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The NHL Trade Deadline has come and gone and the guys discuss the aftermath.

The Mayor gives an update on the Kings prospect pipeline.

The guys discuss the upcoming week in Los Angeles including the return of PL Dubois and possible off-season moves.

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