While most of the shockwaves surrounding the Los Angeles Kings franchise were focused on Anze Kopitar announcing his retirement following the season, there happens to be another underlying aspect for the club that remains a major x-factor for this upcoming season.

Anze Kopitar confirmed Thursday that the 2025-26 season will be his last in the NHL, bringing an end to a two-decade career spent entirely with the Los Angeles Kings.

Holland and Kempe’s agent, J.P. Barry, have been meeting since July and both are interested in a long-term contract. The Kings can sign him to an eight-year deal before the new CBA goes into effect and limits the maximum term to seven years. But there’s a gap that both sides must bridge.

The Los Angeles Kings are just a few weeks away from training camp and less than a month from opening night. For this season, there are still talks around the roster lacking a little firepower, but it's good enough to make the postseason and go home early again.

Los Angeles Kings, led by head coach Jim Hiller, are reportedly focused on securing a key winger’s contract extension as the 2025–26 NHL season approaches.