Kings Expected to Name Ken Holland Next General Manager

Ken Holland, a four-time Stanley Cup-winning executive and Hockey Hall of Fame inductee, is expected to become the next general manager of the Los Angeles Kings. Holland replaces Rob Blake, whose contract was not renewed after the Kings' fourth consecutive first-round playoff exit, often against the Edmonton Oilers—a team Holland helped build during his recent tenure as GM. Holland spent 27 seasons as an NHL GM with the Detroit Red Wings and Edmonton Oilers, leading Detroit to three Stanley Cups as GM and the Oilers to the 2024 Stanley Cup Final. After leaving the Oilers following the 2024 playoffs, Holland worked as a consultant before nearing a deal to take over the Kings’ front office. The Kings will rely on Holland to quickly prepare for the upcoming NHL Draft and free agency, with key players like Vladislav Gavrikov and Andrei Kuzmenko among their unrestricted free agents. Holland’s appointment is anticipated soon, marking a significant leadership change aimed at advancing the Kings beyond their recent playoff struggles.