LA Kings Aim to Unleash Artemi Panarin's Offensive Talents

New star forward joins team focused on defense, but coaches say they'll let him "do what makes him special"

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The LA Kings have acquired star forward Artemi Panarin in a trade, and head coach Jim Hiller says the team will allow Panarin to play to his offensive strengths rather than forcing him to fit their defensive-minded system. Panarin is known for his elite puck-handling and playmaking abilities, which contrast with the Kings' traditional focus on structure and responsibility in their own end. The coaching staff is committed to integrating Panarin's skills into the lineup and power play to boost the team's struggling offense.

Why it matters

The Kings have lacked consistent offensive firepower in recent years, with only one 90-point scorer in the last 30 seasons. Panarin's addition represents a shift in philosophy as the team looks to jumpstart its attack and take pressure off its strong defensive game. Allowing Panarin to play to his strengths could unlock new dimensions to the Kings' offense and make them a more dangerous team.

The details

In his first practice with the Kings, Panarin showed off his elite puck skills and creativity, impressing his new teammates. The coaching staff has indicated they will build around Panarin's talents on the first power play unit and pair him with skilled forwards like Adrian Kempe and Alex Laferriere. While the Kings won't overhaul their defensive systems midseason, they are committed to giving Panarin the freedom to "do what makes him special" in the offensive zone.

  • Panarin arrived in Los Angeles three days ago and participated in his first practice with the team.
  • Kempe is expected to return from the 2026 Winter Olympics in early next week.

The players

Artemi Panarin

A star forward recently acquired by the LA Kings in a trade, known for his elite puck-handling and playmaking abilities.

Anze Kopitar

The captain of the LA Kings, who joked about Panarin's defensive abilities in his first comments about the new addition.

Jim Hiller

The head coach of the LA Kings, who has committed to allowing Panarin to play to his offensive strengths rather than forcing him to fit the team's defensive-minded system.

Alex Laferriere

A Kings forward who will likely be paired with Panarin and Adrian Kempe, and was impressed by Panarin's skills in their first practice together.

Adrian Kempe

A skilled Kings forward expected to return from the Olympics and join Panarin and Laferriere on the team's top line.

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What they’re saying

“We have to let him do what he does, what makes him special.”

— Jim Hiller, Head Coach, LA Kings (lakingsinsider.com)

“Some of the plays that he was making out there were unbelievable. I'm just trying to read off him and just try to find the open ice, because I know he's going to find me. He's an unbelievable passer and can score a lot of goals. He's a really fun player to play with.”

— Alex Laferriere, LA Kings Forward (lakingsinsider.com)

What’s next

The Kings will continue to integrate Panarin into their lineup and power play over the next week, with the goal of having him fully up to speed before their first game back on February 25 against the Vegas Golden Knights.

The takeaway

The LA Kings are making a concerted effort to unleash Artemi Panarin's offensive talents, even if it means deviating from their traditional defensive-minded approach. This shift in philosophy could unlock new dimensions to the Kings' attack and make them a more dangerous team as they push for the playoffs.