The Los Angeles Kings’ Smart Roster Shuffle

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  • April 20, 2024

LA Kings: Shaking Things Up

The LA Kings have made strategic roster moves as the playoffs approach. Recalling winger Carl Grundstrom from his conditioning loan with the AHL’s Ontario Reign. The team will inevitably engergize its performance now that Grundstrom has returned from long-term injury.

Alongside him, goalie Aaron Dell promotion provides depth, providing depth to the goaltending roster as the Los Angeles Kings gear up for the critical games ahead.

Grundstrom’s Road to Recovery

Grundstrom, sidelined for over two months due to a lower-body injury, has recently returned to the ice with the Reign, scoring a goal and an assist in two games.

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His performance during the conditioning stint suggests that he is on the path to regaining his form from earlier in the season when he played 50 games for the LA Kings, tallying eight goals and four assists.

His physical presence also made an impact, evident in his 115 hits, despite averaging just under 11 minutes of ice time per game.

The decision to bring Grundstrom back into the fold is not without its risks, given the length of his absence. However, his potential return to the lineup could provide a much-needed boost to the Kings’ offensive depth. His ability to contribute both offensively and physically could be a notable change in the high-stakes environment of the playoffs.

Goalie Aaron Dell Steps Up

On the goaltending front, Aaron Dell’s promotion is a strategic move that bolsters the Kings’ depth between the pipes. After converting his AHL contract to an NHL one last month,

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Dell has proven himself with the Reign. Boasting a 2.57 goals-against average and a .914 save percentage over a dozen games. His experience as a 130-game NHL veteran will be invaluable, serving as the emergency third-string choice and providing a safety net for the team.

This move also allows prospects Erik Portillo and Jacob Ingham to lead Ontario’s goaltending tandem into the AHL playoffs. Ensuring that the future of the Kings’ goaltending is well-prepared and gaining valuable postseason experience.

Los Angeles Kings: Strategic Roster Moves: Tactical Adjustments

As the Los Angeles Kings prepare to face the Oilers, these roster moves reflect a well-thought-out strategy by the management. The addition of Grundstrom and Dell could be subtle. The team needs to make impactful adjustments to navigate the challenges of the postseason.

Their integration into the team dynamics will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as the Kings aim to make a deep run in the quest for the Stanley Cup.

Image Credit: Depositphotos

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