Kings Notes: Smith, Fiala, Wright

The Los Angeles Kings are evaluating their head coaching position as GM Ken Holland considers various candidates, including current interim coach D.J. Smith, who improved the team's offense since taking over. Under Smith, the Kings averaged 3.1 goals per game compared to 2.6 under Jim Hiller, helping them reach the playoffs. Potential candidates also include Peter Laviolette for his offensive strategy, while Manny Malhotra's candidacy is less likely due to his current team's struggles. Additionally, Kevin Fiala is recovering well from injuries sustained during the Winter Olympics and could return sooner than expected, while Jared Wright looks set for a full-time role next season.

• Kings scored 2.6 goals per game under Jim Hiller over 59 games.
• The team averaged 3.1 goals per game under D.J. Smith.
• Fiala could return in as little as three months post-injury, faster than the typical recovery of three to six months.

Despite improvements under Smith, the Kings' offense would rank only 16th in the NHL over a full season at the 3.1 goals-per-game rate. This highlights that while there are positive trends, the overall scoring still needs significant enhancement.

• Holland is exploring multiple candidates for the head coaching position.
• Kevin Fiala is exceeding recovery expectations, potentially returning in Round Two of the playoffs.
• Jared Wright is expected to transition to a more prominent role in the upcoming season.

The Kings will likely finalize their head coaching choice soon, weighing Smith's interim performance against other candidates. They hope to implement strategies that could improve overall scoring and enhance playoff performance next season.

The Kings must prioritize improving their offensive output to advance further in the playoffs. Managing a successful coaching transition will be crucial, as will the health and performance of players like Kevin Fiala and Jared Wright, who could significantly impact the team's success moving forward.