Kings Send Four Players Down to Finalize Opening Roster

The Los Angeles Kings enter the 2026-27 season under new coach Peter Laviolette, who is seeking to move the team from a defense-first approach toward faster, more aggressive offense. The transition follows the departure of longtime captain Anze Kopitar and comes as winger Kevin Fiala is expected to begin the season on injured reserve while recovering from a serious leg injury. Artemi Panarin and Adrian Kempe are expected to lead the attack, while the Kings also hope a healthy, rejuvenated Drew Doughty can strengthen their aging roster. To finalize the lineup, Los Angeles sent goaltender Erik Portillo and forwards Taylor Ward and defenseman Scott Perunovich to AHL Ontario; defenseman Kirill Kirsanov was also returned to the minors after a brief recall. The roster decisions leave the Kings with room to call up a player if needed as they prepare to open against Colorado.