The 2025-26 NHL regular season begins on Oct. 7. Leading up to the season opener, NHL.com is identifying six things to watch for each team. Today, the Los Angeles Kings.

Last season: 48-25-9, second place in Pacific Division; lost in Western Conference First Round

Coach: Jim Hiller (third season)

Biggest challenge

Putting together a strong Stanley Cup Playoff run again. The Kings have been eliminated in the first round four straight seasons, each time by the Edmonton Oilers, who advanced to the Stanley Cup Final the past two seasons. The Kings added to their depth during the offseason, including forwards Joel Armia and Corey Perry , and defensemen Cody Ceci and Brian Dumoulin . Perry will likely miss the first month of the season after having knee surgery earlier this month,

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