Artemi Panarin's First Practice with the LA Kings: Key Insights from Head Coach Jim Hiller

The LA Kings' Strategy Unveiled: 6 Insights from Coach Jim Hiller

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:09am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a hockey game broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes, capturing the dynamic energy and shifting perspectives of the sport.Panarin's arrival shakes up the Kings' strategy, as coach Hiller navigates the challenges of integrating a star player and reshuffling the lineup.Los Angeles Today

A star player joins, but will the team's strategy shift? On Wednesday, the LA Kings welcomed Artemi Panarin to the ice for his first practice, and head coach Jim Hiller shared some intriguing insights with the media. Here are the key takeaways from this pivotal moment in the team's season.

Why it matters

The addition of Panarin to the LA Kings' roster is a significant move that could shift the team's dynamics and strategy. Hiller's comments provide valuable insight into how the Kings plan to integrate Panarin while also addressing the loss of Kevin Fiala and maintaining their overall team structure.

The details

Hiller acknowledges the risk of players participating in international tournaments, but remains proud of their representation. He assures fans that the team's strategy won't undergo major changes, highlighting the importance of understanding Panarin's playing style and adapting to it. Hiller hints at Alex Laferriere and Adrian Kempe as likely candidates to skate with Panarin, and discusses the need to shift the power play dynamics to maximize Panarin's impact. He also stresses the importance of Byfield developing a shooter's mentality.

  • On Wednesday, the LA Kings welcomed Artemi Panarin to the ice for his first practice.

The players

Jim Hiller

The head coach of the LA Kings.

Artemi Panarin

A star player who has joined the LA Kings.

Kevin Fiala

A player for the LA Kings who suffered an injury during the Olympics and will miss the rest of the regular season.

Alex Laferriere

A player for the LA Kings who is a likely candidate to skate with Panarin.

Adrian Kempe

A player for the LA Kings who is a likely candidate to skate with Panarin.

Jared Byfield

A player for the LA Kings who Hiller encourages to develop a shooter's mentality.

Andrei Kuzmenko

A player for the LA Kings who is returning from injury.

Alex Turcotte

A player for the LA Kings who is returning from injury.

Mikey Anderson

A player for the LA Kings who is returning from injury.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.