A historic season for coach Andrew Lord and the Ontario Reign came to a heartbreaking end in double overtime on Saturday night, as they fell to the visiting Coachella Valley Firebirds in a winner-take-all Game 5.

For the fourth time in the series, Ontario gave up the first goal of the game — which certainly didn’t make things any easier on themselves. Coachella Valley winger Jani Nyman netted his third goal of the postseason to put the Firebirds ahead 1-0.

Early in period two, Jack Hughes tied things up with his second tally of the series. Perhaps there’s just a different level Hughes is capable of shifting into come postseason action. Last year, after a somewhat disappointing regular season, he managed to elevate into one of Boston University’s better players during their run to the Frozen Four. Fast forward to this year, an argument could be made that he was among the most consistent players for Ontario at both ends of the ice in this series. And he finished off the run by scoring key goals in consecutive games.

When Oscar Fisker Molgaard gave the Firebirds a 2-1 lead midway through the second frame, it set up a nerve-racking final period for Lord & Co. With the Reign pouring on pressure late, Andre Lee came through with the tying goal — his first of the playoffs.

He had a flair for the dramatic all season long, delivering timely, clutch goals for Ontario. Game 5 was no different, as he scored perhaps the biggest goal of his career. After being asked about a possible reunion of the Lee-Connors-Wright line throughout the series, Lord finally put the trio back together in Game 5 and it paid dividends.

Still tied after 60 minutes, these Pacific Division foes needed not one, but two overtime periods to decide things. Unfortunately for Ontario, J.R. Avon slipped behind the defense and beat Reign goalie Erik Portillo, sending the Firebirds onto the next round.

Three Takeaways from the Loss:

The Little Things

After a contest like Game 5, it’s difficult to narrow things down to just three takeaways. With that said, a few key points can be grouped into one overarching takeaway.

First and foremost, the Reign lost far too many faceoffs. It was a recurring theme throughout the series, with Coachella Valley consistently controlling the dot. When you’re unable to establish possession off draws, sustaining pressure becomes incredibly difficult, and that issue was on full display on Saturday evening.

Additionally, as coach Lord mentioned throughout the series, Ontario’s inability to manage the puck proved costly. Missed passes, pucks rolling off sticks, and struggles handling the puck along the boards consistently plagued the Reign all series long.

Then there’s the power play, which ultimately let Ontario down when it mattered most. Going 0-for-9 with the extra skater is unacceptable in a series this tight, especially when chances to capitalize were so limited.

Firebirds = Oilers?

There are always demons in sports — opponents that repeatedly stand in the way no matter how good a team may be. Just look at the Kings and Oilers, where Edmonton sent Los Angeles home in the first round four straight times from 2022-25.

Perhaps Coachella Valley is that kryptonite for Ontario. The Reign broke all kinds of franchise records this season but ultimately ran into the Firebirds and fell.

From a bizarre Game 1, where Ontario seemed completely out of sync, to a Game 5 they probably take in most scenarios based on their first overtime chances, the series was filled with nightmarish happenings for the Reign.

While it did take the full five games (and some overtime) to eventually get to a winner, the result was the same as the last time these teams met up in the postseason — another Coachella Valley win.

Open the Port

The LA Kings enter a crucial offseason with plenty of uncertainty, especially between the pipes. As top prospects Hampton Slukynsky and Carter George arrive at the pro level to begin their journeys, it’s also time for Portillo to finally receive his shot at an NHL job.

He was outstanding most of the regular season, putting together what may have been the best campaign of his career. At one point, he rattled off 10 straight wins and claimed victory in 15 of 17 decisions.

Late in the season, it seemed like Portillo just couldn’t catch a break in the win column, but the struggles were more team-related than anything on his end.

To cap off his 2025-26 efforts, Portillo was exceptional in the playoffs. Starting Games 1, 3, and 5, he posted a 2.14 GAA and .926 save percentage while delivering several massive saves in crucial moments.

Following the loss, Lord spoke highly of Portillo, saying, “[He] has got a bright future ahead of him. He gave us solid minutes, solid games all year.”

For more with Lord, including his extended thoughts on several Kings prospects, be sure to check out his recent appearance on KOTP linked below.

Follow @mayorsmanor

Lead photo by Thomas Salvatierra

MORE LA KINGS NEWS:

Kings Of The Podcast, Ep. 263 – Ending in LA, Starting in Ontario, and Guest Andrew Lord

AHL Round 2: Reign vs. Firebirds, Full Schedule and Series Preview + Notes on Andre Lee and More

Note to webmasters/reporters: When recapping news or interviews from this site please remember to include a link to www.MayorsManor.com

The winner takes it all (takes it all) / The loser has to fall (has to fall)

Cue up ABBA, because for the first time since the 2017 Calder Cup Playoffs, everything will be on the line for Ontario in a winner-take-all showdown.

Tonight is enormous for the Reign. In coach Andrew Lord’s first regular-season campaign behind the bench, his team already rewrote the franchise record book with 47 wins and 99 points.  If Ontario find themselves eliminated by the rival Firebirds, those accomplishments won’t shine quite as bright.

Thursday’s 6-2 loss in Coachella Valley was a flat performance. The Reign were passive at both ends of the ice and never dictated the pace.

Lord didn’t mince words postgame: “Our puck management, or execution, is not where it’s needed to be, particularly tonight, and obviously, last game as well.” And Captain Joe Hicketts emphasized what it will take to respond: the team needs to “get their swagger back” and “put together a full 60 [minutes]” in order to advance.

Despite the results of Game 4, there are reasons for optimism. Dating back to the last three Calder Cup Playoffs, teams that win Game 3 in a best-of-five series tied 1-1 are 14-1 in advancing. And while Coachella Valley is 3-0 in elimination games this postseason, tonight marks their first elimination game on the road. Still, if there’s one team built to defy all odds, it is Coachella Valley. The Firebirds pair battle-tested playoff experience with explosive young talent, making them dangerous no matter the circumstances.

Given the rotation Lord has used in net throughout the playoffs, Erik Portillo is expected to start tonight. The Swedish netminder has been one of Ontario’s backbone players all season — and his .909 and .964 save percentages in Games 1 and 3, respectively, set the stage for another big-time performance.

It will be an electric atmosphere at Toyota Arena. The Reign are back in their barn, where they went 26-6-4 during the regular season. And now it’s time for them to put that home-ice advantage to work and close out the series.

GM5: Reign Projected Lineup

If there are any key changes during pregame warmups, this article will be updated.

Guttman – Gawdin – Chromiak
Alexandrov – Pinelli – Brown
Lee – Connors – Wright
Isogai – Hughes – Jamsen

Kirsanov – Booth
Hicketts – Brzustewicz
Novikov – Millar

Portillo (starter)
Copley

Likely scratches: (F) Doty, Jenik, G. Slukynsky, Ziemmer and (D) Dvorak, Salin and (G) H. Slukynsky

Injured: Burroughs

Key Game Info

Puck drop is set for 6 p.m. Pacific Time and will be streamed via FloSports. Additionally, a Reign radio feed is available here.

Follow @mayorNHL

Gameday image by ALoImages

Note to webmasters/reporters: When recapping news or interviews from this site please remember to include a link to www.MayorsManor.com

Thursday night did not bring the result Andrew Lord and Co. were looking for, as the Coachella Valley Firebirds cruised to a 6-2 win in the desert, forcing a winner-take-all Game 5 at Toyota Arena.

Ontario struck first in Game 4 when Jack Hughes buried the Reign’s opening shot of the night — which didn’t come until late in the first period. It was the latest chapter in an impressive playoff run for the 2022 draft pick.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

However, from that point on, it was all Coachella Valley. They dictated the pace of play and wore down the Reign at both ends of the ice, all the way up until the final horn sounded.

Already trailing 3-1 entering the third period, Coachella beat Pheonix Copley again early in the frame to take a commanding 4-1 lead. Later, things turned a little wonky when a pair of penalties just a few seconds apart led to a 4-on-4 situation. Even though there was still about seven minutes remaining, Lord pulled his goalie for an extra attacker. It paid off when Nikita Alexandrov scored his first goal of the playoffs, giving Ontario a brief sliver of hope. Looking to strike again, Copley returned to the bench following a faceoff win by the Reign, but a pair of empty net goals by the Firebirds ended up putting things out of reach.

Three Takeaways from the Loss:

No Extinguisher for the Firebirds

The Reign never seemed to find their footing in Game 4. From the first shift to the last, it felt like the ice was tilted the other way. The same problems from the first 40 minutes of Game 3 remained — sloppy connections, no explosiveness, and very little energy.

Coach Lord echoed a similar sentiment after the game: “Our puck management, or execution, is not where it’s needed to be, particularly tonight, and obviously, last game as well.”

He also made it clear that, win or not, Ontario’s overall play on this trip hasn’t been good enough.

Reign captain Joe Hicketts instead emphasized the challenge and intensity of the setting: “It’s a tough building. It gets loud. It’s a very good rivalry. Fans, players, teams. It’s something that we got to get excited for again.”

More Action, Less Reaction

Strong defensive structure is important, yet there’s a fine line between structured and passive. On Thursday night at Acrisure Arena, the Reign looked like they crossed it — in the wrong direction.

Without aggressive pinches, physical play, or defensemen stepping up, the Reign never really dictated the pace. It had all the makings of a flat performance.

When asked about the team’s passive approach postgame, Lord didn’t deny it. He instead cited poor puck management as the root cause behind the lack of aggression and execution.

Winner Take All

Given the history between these two teams in recent years, this always felt like a series destined for the distance. Now, it comes down to a winner-take-all Game 5 with a trip to the Pacific Division Final on the line.

A flawless 3-0 record in elimination games has defined Coachella Valley’s playoff run so far, but Saturday night brings their first road elimination game.

Hicketts noted the team needs to “get their swagger back” and “put together a full 60 [minutes]” in order to advance in the playoffs.

It should be an electric atmosphere Saturday night for what is one of the best rivalries in the AHL.

A deeper season review and analysis of several Kings prospects can be found in a recent interview with Lord linked below.

Follow @mayorsmanor

Lead photo by Delaney Donahue

MORE LA KINGS NEWS:

Kings Of The Podcast, Ep. 263 – Ending in LA, Starting in Ontario, and Guest Andrew Lord

AHL Round 2: Reign vs. Firebirds, Full Schedule and Series Preview + Notes on Andre Lee and More

Note to webmasters/reporters: When recapping news or interviews from this site please remember to include a link to www.MayorsManor.com

Tonight, Andrew Lord’s Ontario Reign have the opportunity to punch their ticket to the AHL’s Pacific Division Final. Closing out a series is challenging enough, and things could become even more difficult considering they’re facing an always tough Coachella Valley squad.

Building on consecutive wins in Games 2 and 3, the Reign have now pushed the Firebirds’ backs against the wall, leaving Coachella Valley on the brink of elimination in this tightly contested series.

Winning on the road Tuesday night was massive for Ontario. Dating back to the 2024 Calder Cup Playoffs, when a best-of-five series is tied 1-1, the team claiming a win in Game 3 has gone 13-1 in those series — including two such instances already this postseason. Said differently, 93% of Game 3 winners have gone on to advance to the next round. The latest example? Chicago over Texas in the Central Division Semifinal.

While Ontario enters play tonight with a 2-1 edge in the series, finishing off a team with Coachella Valley’s experience likely won’t come easy. The Reign also understood their performance last time out — especially over the opening 40 minutes of action — left plenty of room for improvement.

Lord echoed a similar assessment following the game. “I thought we mismanaged the puck,” he admitted, when talking about the first period. “I don’t think we were on our game. The third period was much more like it.”

So, what specifically needs to change?

“A full 60 [minutes], for sure,” Lord explained. “We have to start on time. Just be a little harder to play against, a little bit more of a playoff mindset, similar to Game 2.”

An intriguing development in Game 3 was Lord’s decision to shuffle the lines midway through the game. He basically moved some of his wingers around, including reuniting Andre Lee with Kenny Connors, and putting Aatu Jamsen with Jack Hughes. The latter move resulted in Ontario’s first goal and appeared to really help get the team back on track.

When asked about the changes postgame, Ontario’s bench boss said, “I think, to a man, we were a lot better [in the third period].” Agreed, which is why we used those same lines in our projection below.

Perhaps the bigger question heading into Game 4 is which Ontario goaltender will be in the crease. Will Lord continue the Portillo-Copley rotation that worked throughout the regular season? That would suggest Pheonix Copley tonight, if so.

However, as Lord put it, “We’ll have to wait and see!”

GM4: Reign Projected Lineup

If there are any key changes during pregame warmups, this article will be updated.

Brown – Gawdin – Guttman
Lee – Connors – Chromiak
Alexandrov – Pinelli – Wright
Isogai – Hughes – Jamsen

Kirsanov – Booth
Hicketts – Brzustewicz
Novikov – Millar

Copley (starter)
Portillo

Likely scratches: (F) Doty, Jenik, G. Slukynsky, Ziemmer and (D) Dvorak, Salin and (G) H. Slukynsky

Injured: Burroughs

Key Game Info

Puck drop is set for 7:00 p.m. Pacific Time and will be streamed via FloSports. Additionally, a Reign radio feed is available here.

Follow @mayorNHL

Gameday image by ALoImages

Note to webmasters/reporters: When recapping news or interviews from this site please remember to include a link to www.MayorsManor.com

If it sounds familiar, it should. The Ontario Reign rallied once again in the third period to come from behind and win.

Facing a 1-0 deficit on the scoreboard, and under pressure for nearly 40 minutes to open Game 3, coach Andrew Lord’s squad responded with two goals in 80 seconds and then locked things down defensively. After Aatu Jamsen and Logan Brown found the back of the net, it was up to goaltender Erik Portillo and Ontario’s defense to shut things down — including a late highly questionable penalty on Franky Pinelli in the closing minutes that forced Ontario into survival mode when Coachella Valley pulled their goalie for a 6-on-4 advantage.

While not their cleanest performance, Ontario found a way to get the desired result through grit and determination. Now leading 2-1 in the best-of-five series, Ontario will look to close things out Thursday night in Coachella Valley.

Three Takeaways from the Win:

Port Closed in Palm Desert

The Reign turned back to Portillo in Game 3, a decision that came into question after veteran Pheonix Copley’s strong Game 2 showing. If there were any doubts, the big Swede erased them all. He was just as good as Copley, perhaps even better. He was locked in all night and was at his best when the game hung in the balance.

After not being rewarded for his solid play in Game 1, Portillo claimed he was unfazed by having to wait for Game 3 to get his shot at redemption. “We’re a team, I trust the coaches with what’s best for the team,” he stated. “I’m proud that they decided to go with me tonight. I wanted to show them that I could get it done for the team and really battle.”

As was the case last game, the decision in net for Game 4 will be worth watching. Does Lord stay with a 50-50 rotation, or go back to the Kings goalie prospect once again? Either way, it’s a luxury for Ontario’s bench boss at the moment; having two guys he can equally rely upon. Not every team has one, having two is invaluable.

Lord on Portillo’s Game 3 performance… pic.twitter.com/pRcjdSfDKF

— The Mayor | Team MM (@mayorNHL) May 6, 2026

For his part, Portillo also likes the defense in front of him, especially the play of 19-year-old Henry Brzustewicz — who earned his first pro point with an assist on Ontario’s second goal:

Portillo on Brzustewicz… pic.twitter.com/spNa2Ib6UM

— The Mayor | Team MM (@mayorNHL) May 6, 2026

Shuffled Deck, Winning Hand

Sensing a need for momentum, Lord adjusted his lines late in period two, attempting to generate a spark. The moves proved effective — as Jamsen, shifted to the fourth line, scored the equalizer; and Logan Brown, skating alongside two veterans, gave Ontario the lead.

Wholesale changes by Lordo to start P3

Lee – Connors – Chromiak
Brown – Gawdin – Guttman
Alexandrov – Pinelli – Wright
Isogai – Hughes – Jamsen #ReignTrain

— The Mayor | Team MM (@mayorNHL) May 6, 2026

It’s a decision that reflects well on Lord. Coming off a convincing 5-1 win in Game 2, maintaining the status quo would have been the easier choice. Instead, he went into his bag of tricks and found a little late-game magic.

C Game, A Result

During his postgame scrum, Lord noted he appreciated that his team was able to secure a victory, yet also noted they’ll need a cleaner, more complete effort to close out the series on Thursday.

By their standards, it wasn’t a strong showing from Ontario. Grading scale, it likely falls into the C range. Even though the defensive structure was on par, the Reign struggled in other key areas.

Their forecheck was ineffective, their transition game lacked explosiveness, and their passing lacked precision. Outside of Portillo’s goaltending, there were few positives over the game’s first two frames.

That said, finding a way to win while not playing your best is a major positive. If the Reign bring more of their offensive firepower to Game 4, it could spell the end of the Firebirds’ 2025-26 season.

A deeper season review and analysis of several Kings prospects can be found in a recent interview with Lord linked below.

Follow @mayorsmanor

Lead photo by Delaney Donahue

MORE LA KINGS NEWS:

Kings Of The Podcast, Ep. 263 – Ending in LA, Starting in Ontario, and Guest Andrew Lord

AHL Round 2: Reign vs. Firebirds, Full Schedule and Series Preview + Notes on Andre Lee and More

Note to webmasters/reporters: When recapping news or interviews from this site please remember to include a link to www.MayorsManor.com

With their second round series tied 1-1, a shift to Coachella Valley for Game 3 sets the stage for a pivotal matchup between the Reign and Firebirds. If Ontario coach Andrew Lord is to help his squad gain an upper hand in this best-of-five series, he’ll need to once again push the right buttons — something he’s consistently found a way to do over the past seven months.

In Game 1, the Reign looked lackluster, perhaps showing signs of rust after 11 days off following their first-round bye, by virtue of earning the Pacific Division title with 99 points.

If that was the case, it didn’t last long. They shook it off in Game 2, scoring five unanswered goals during a dominant 5-1 win over the Firebirds. It was a crucial win at Toyota Arena and reset things before the series moved out of town for a pair of games.

The bounce-back effort checked all the boxes — effective adjustments, consistent pressure on the forecheck, and high-level goaltending.

Speaking of who plays between the pipes, there was significant surprise when veteran Pheonix Copley led the way during warmups. Benching Kings prospect Erik Portillo raised more than a few eyebrows, particularly after he was one of the lone bright spots in Game 1.

Any questions surrounding the decision to go with Copley were answered by his first star of the game performance in Game 2. Now comes another difficult question, did he do enough to earn a second straight start?

In trying to explain how the goalie change came to be, Lord attempted to minimize the confusion during his postgame scrum. “We’ve rotated all year, right?” he said. “We’ve stayed the course with it so far in the first two games.”

Sure, on one hand, that is technically true. However, it was believed this postseason run would be used by the organization to take a long look at Portillo. Kings GM Ken Holland even went so far as to say he was going to Ontario that night specifically to watch the 25-year-old.

The gamble clearly paid off, with Ontario earning a victory and evening the series. So, what now? When asked if this would lead to him going with Portillo in Game 3, Lord offered only a smile: “I guess we’ll just have to wait and see.”

Indeed, we will. During playoff time, coaches keep their already closely guarded secrets even closer to the vest.

Meanwhile, an unsung hero from Friday’s game was Franky Pinelli, who earned second-star honors with a two-point performance that included a shorthanded goal. Perhaps the 2021 Kings draft selection is poised for a bigger role this postseason. After drawing in for only three playoff games total over the past two years and coming away without a point and only one shot, the 23-year-old forward could be coming into his own offensively. He’s expected to continue centering a line alongside fellow LA prospect Aatu Jamsen, who returned to the lineup in Game 2.

“He’s very creative, with a high hockey IQ, as well,” Pinelli said of Jamsen following Game 2. Lord also shared plenty of praise for Jamsen after the game.

Turning to what’s ahead tonight, another win by the Reign would give them a little breathing room in the series. Whichever team loses tonight will be facing elimination in Thursday’s Game 4.

Reign Projected Lineup vs. Firebirds

If there are any key changes during pregame warmups, this article will be updated.

Lee – Gawdin – Guttman
Alexandrov – Connors – Chromiak
Brown – Pinelli – Jamsen
Isogai – Hughes – Wright

Kirsanov – Booth
Hicketts – Brzustewicz
Novikov – Millar

Portillo (starter)
Copley

Likely scratches: (F) Doty, Jenik, G. Slukynsky, Ziemmer and (D) Dvorak, Salin and (G) H. Slukynsky

Injured: Burroughs

Key Game Info

Puck drop is set for 7:00 p.m. Pacific Time and will be streamed via FloSports. Additionally, a Reign radio feed is available here.

Follow @mayorNHL

Gameday image by ALoImages

Note to webmasters/reporters: When recapping news or interviews from this site please remember to include a link to www.MayorsManor.com

Coming off their 2025-26 season, the LA Kings appear to be at a crossroads of sorts. Last summer, they were coming off the team’s most successful run of regular season hockey in franchise history. Averaging over 100 points in a four-year stretch, and capped off with a .640 points percentage, that narrative also came with four first round exits and the departure of Rob Blake as GM.

In came Ken Holland, who was expected to help get the team over the hump. Instead, the Kings just wrapped up a regression-filled season. After 90 points, a .540 points percentage, a lack of offense, another coach fired, and being swept out of the playoffs, many fans are rightfully upset.

Where does the team go from here, though? A rebuild isn’t coming anytime soon. Among many of the reasons behind that statement, not many NHL teams make the playoffs five straight years and then tear it down. So, there’s that.

In addition to searching for the magic formula that will elevate LA to the next level, Holland has several holes to fill this summer — primarily, the three C’s: coach, center, captain.

Leaving the latter pair of topics for a different article, let’s focus on the coach. This part of the conversation will eventually turn to, what type of coach do the Kings need to help them get out of the first round?

Current interim coach D.J. Smith will be given consideration as part of the search, a point covered here. What about some outside candidates?

Here we go, in alphabetical order…

Seven Coaching Candidates

Bruce Boudreau – Some will groan and call this another ‘retread’ hire. However, he fits the bill on a few fronts. He’s a name coach. He’s had success balancing young players and superstars, coalescing groups into a galvanized unit. He’s also somebody who likely comes with a reasonable price tag, a very real consideration. Making Todd McLellan the highest paid coach in the NHL didn’t solve the Kings playoff drought. That’s just a reality. He also hasn’t had any postseason success over the past 10 years. Boudreau went to the Conference Final with Anaheim in 2015. On the surface, this feels more like a hire for a team at the ‘building’ stage, not where the Kings are in May 2026.

Bruce Cassidy – Not sure about this guy? Just open up social media. Fanbases of several NHL teams are clamoring for their favorite club to hire Cassidy. He’s guided teams to the postseason nine straight seasons (and 10-of-11). His Bruins team reached the Stanley Cup Final in 2019 and he was bench boss for the Golden Knights when they won their Cup in 2023. Primarily viewed as a defensive specialist, he also likes to squeeze offense out of the blueline. Players like him initially, but the love doesn’t last forever (not quite Darryl Sutter-esque). Recently fired in Vegas, some expect him to become the highest paid coach in the league when he lands a new gig. Coming up on his 61st birthday in a few weeks, Cassidy has run the gauntlet, coaching in junior hockey, the minor leagues, and NHL. A former defenseman, he won the Memorial Cup while playing for legendary OHL coach Brian Kilrea — trivia note: the man who also scored the first goal in LA Kings franchise history.

Pat Ferschweiler – Here’s a dark horse candidate. He’s currently the coach at Western Michigan, where he won a National Championship in 2025. His name shows up here not because he had the Kings No. 1 goalie prospect (Hampton Slukynsky) as his netminder. That’s just a happy coincidence, actually. The real reason is his connection to Holland — and there’s almost always a connection in these situations. In short, Ferschweiler was an assistant coach for the Red Wings for five years, serving in both the AHL and NHL. There’s also a quasi-link to the Kings in there, as he was an assistant under former LA coach Andy Murray for three years at WMU. In the collegiate world, he’s one of the hottest names in coaching circles, trailing maybe only David Carle (who by all accounts, has no interest in leaving Denver). Hiring him in LA would likely be viewed as an off the board pick to some but actually considered quite the coup by many smart people in the hockey world.

Gerard Gallant – Another coach with ties back to LA’s current GM. They played together in the Red Wings organization early in their careers. While Holland went on to have a Hall of Fame career in Detroit’s front office, Gallant went on to coach for teams like Columbus, Florida, and Vegas. He’s been out of the NHL since 2023, but was still coaching in the KHL. His teams made Stanley Cup Playoff appearances in four of his last five seasons behind an NHL bench — including guiding the Golden Knights to a Cup Final in 2018; the same year he earned the Jack Adams Award as the league’s top coach. Known as a players’ coach, Gallant is highly regarded for his up-tempo teams, full use of his roster, and clear lines of accountability.

Peter Laviolette – An intriguing name, especially if Holland is looking to get the band back together, of sorts. Laviolette coached Artemi Panarin for several years with the Rangers and making a second run at center Vincent Trocheck this summer makes a ton of sense (LA tried at the Trade Deadline in March). When it comes to playoff success, there’s a rather strong resume to lean on here. Throughout NHL history, Laviolette is one of only four men to lead three different teams to the Stanley Cup Final: Carolina, Philadelphia, and Nashville. He’s known for setting high expectations and playing an aggressive brand of hockey. This would be a name hire with a strong pedigree to back up any question or situation thrown at him.

John Tortorella – As mentioned on NHL Radio a few weeks back, there was said to be mutual interest between Torts and Holland right before the veteran coach was hired by Vegas. Where things go with the Golden Knights remains to be seen because he’s reportedly only under contract through the end of the 2026 playoffs. In many ways, this feels like a marriage that would have been more possible if Vegas lost in the first round (meaning, bringing him in as a late-season replacement didn’t really pay off). With them now advancing to at least the second round, odds of Tortorella leaving Sin City may be shrinking by the day, therefore removing his name from true consideration.

Jay Woodcroft – Much like the name above, Woodcroft is currently tied to another team, so this could be very challenging to navigate. He’s in year one of a multi-year contract with LA’s longtime rival in Anaheim. Does he have an out clause that would allow him to move from the Ducks assistant coach to a head coach elsewhere? Last summer, Holland was believed to be keeping close tabs on various offers Woodcroft was pursuing, with some potential interest in finding a way to bring him into the fold at that time. The two have a history together during their time in Edmonton, so there’s some strong trust and recency. Thus, a potential reunion will be talked about quite a bit in the weeks ahead.

BONUS CANDIDATE: Patrick Roy – We’ll cut right to the chase on this one. We just don’t see him as a top tier candidate in LA at the moment. However, if Roy wasn’t included here, he’d likely be the first name asked about by people reading this article. He’s a fiery personality, who didn’t seem to finish the job in Colorado or New York, despite his success at the junior level. In fact, his five full seasons behind an NHL bench have been marked by three first round exits and twice missing the playoffs. Now, sure, some of that can be tied to roster construction, timing, etc. Yet, it still doesn’t sell easily as a ‘here’s the fix for LA’ solution.

Based on Holland’s comments last week, he plans to interview five to eight candidates, “some with experience, some maybe assistants, maybe one or two guys that haven’t been head coaches.” For more of his postseason comments, see the article linked below.

Follow @mayorsmanor

MORE LA KINGS NEWS:

Quick Notes from Holland’s End-of-Season Press Conference

Note to webmasters/reporters: When recapping news or interviews from this site please remember to include a link to www.MayorsManor.com

Ken Holland didn’t sugarcoat it. LA’s General Manager opened his end-of-season press conference on Friday afternoon with a blunt assessment: “I’m not happy. I know Luc Robitaille is not happy. Our players aren’t happy. It was a disappointing season.”

He rattled off the numbers — 29th in the league in goals scored, 28th on the power play, 30th on the penalty kill, under .500 at home, and swept by the Presidents’ Trophy-winning Avalanche. Then he spent the next 35 minutes dissecting nearly everything about the Kings.

Here’s what stood out.

1. Quinton Byfield’s Team Now

Holland spoke plainly: “It’s going to be QB’s team now up front… when the arm goes up on the power play, I would expect he’s going to be on the first unit… it’s going to be his team now.”

Earlier this week, the captaincy question was directed at Mikey Anderson, Adrian Kempe, and Drew Doughty during exit interviews. Anderson and Kempe deflected to the leadership of the group as a whole. Doughty said it would mean the world to him. Nobody asked Byfield. But Holland may have answered it anyway.

DJ Smith previously referred to some of the young players as “Q’s group,” crediting Byfield’s energy as a driving force in the room. Doughty called him the best player on the team since Smith took over. And now Holland is publicly calling this his team.

Is it a genuine declaration or posturing to raise Byfield’s trade value? Potentially a bit of both. Holland has been doing this long enough to know how his words can affect the trade market and mood inside his team’s locker room. But when the GM, the interim coach, and the longest-tenured defenseman all independently point to the same 23-year-old as the centerpiece, that’s likely more than just lip service.

The captaincy hasn’t been discussed publicly by the front office. But perhaps a dark horse candidate beyond the other three players is quietly emerging — Byfield’s name could be in the conversation.

2. Holland Expects More

Without naming names, LA’s GM made clear that some players underperformed and that he told them so directly.

“I think there’s some people in that room that didn’t play as well this year as I know they can, or as they have,” Holland shared. “I have had those conversations with a few of them. The ones that didn’t have heard from me and know what my expectations are heading into next year.”

He was also asked whether he regrets any of the decisions he’s made — the timing of the coaching change, the roster construction, or the trades. His answer was firm: “I don’t really regret any decisions I’ve ever made as a manager. You take the information at the time, you make your decisions, and then you don’t look back.”

It’s a debatable position, especially given the regression from 105 points to 90 and a first-round sweep. Yet there’s something to be said for a GM who commits to his plan rather than second-guessing himself into a different one every quarter. Whether that plan is the right one is the question this offseason could answer.

3. The Coaching Search

Holland revealed that Smith will be a candidate for the permanent job and backed it up with numbers.

“He coached 23 games. He was 11-6-6 under his watch, that’s a .609 [points] percentage,” Holland noted. “Over 82 games, there were only eight teams in the league better than .609. He did a great job.”

But Smith certainly won’t be the only name discussed. Holland said he plans to interview five to eight candidates, “some with experience, some maybe assistants, maybe one or two guys that haven’t been head coaches.” We noted several other potential candidates in our article here.

On the assistant coaching staff, Holland said the next head coach will have a say in whether assistants Newell Brown and Matt Greene return. He spoke positively about Greene’s first stint behind the bench, noting that the players felt he did a great job despite it being his first time in the role. Greene’s background in player development gave him a familiarity with the roster that helped the transition. That all tracks with what Anderson said in his exit interview: “I thought he was awesome. He brings so much intensity. If he wants to do this, he could do it for a long time.” Doughty also said something similar: “Greene did a great job back there. I think all the defensemen love him.”

Regardless of Greene’s strong performance, it’s clear the new coach will have the final say on the composition of the staff.

4. Likely Keeping 2026 First-Round Pick

Holland was asked whether the Kings would consider moving their first-round pick for immediate help. His answer was nearly absolute.

“My plan right now is to keep the 17th pick in the Draft,” Holland responded. “If something presents itself that I think long-term is good for the franchise, I’d be open to moving it. But I’m not going to move it just to try to throw a band-aid at the team to try to be good for one more year.”

The Kings recent draft history suggests a clear philosophy on what they’re looking for with premium picks: size, skill, and offensive upside. Liam Greentree, selected two years ago, and Henry Brzustewicz, selected last year, both fit that mold. Expect more of the same if the pick stays.

Holland also pointed to the draft capital he accumulated at the deadline — picks from the Danault, Perry, and Foegele trades — as evidence that he’s trying to balance competitiveness with pipeline building. “We need youth, so I’m trying to be competitive on this side.”

5. Several Injury Updates

Holland ran through the full injury list and gave meaningful updates.

Kevin Fiala, who missed the final stretch of the season after an Olympic injury, was closer to returning than previously known: “If we were able to advance, he might have been back in Round 2. Round 3, for sure.”

Andrei Kuzmenko had knee surgery during the Olympic break to repair a meniscus tear, and his Game 3 appearance against Colorado was essentially a cold start against the best team in hockey. “Hard to put a guy into the middle of a series against the Presidents’ Trophy champions and expect him to step in,” Holland acknowledged. He finished up that comment by noting that Kuzmenko is now fully healthy.

LA’s GM also mentioned that Joel Armia suffered a hairline back fracture at the Olympics and that Alex Turcotte had a core muscle injury that kept him out most of the final run. Byfield, as he revealed in his own exit interview, played through torn obliques on both sides for the final two months and Holland praised him for it: “I thought he played his best hockey of the year after that, so good on QB for digging in and helping us get in.”

6. Contracts: Clarke and Doughty

The Kings have several contract situations to sort out this summer, and the exit interviews and Holland’s presser gave us a read on where each one stands.

Holland confirmed that contract talks with Brandt Clarke’s agent began around the Olympic break but were shelved heading into the playoff push. The reason was somewhat surprising, and another classic anecdote. Holland referenced the Mike Vernon contract situation in Detroit from 1995, when negotiations during a playoff push became a distraction [they lost in the Stanley Cup Final], and implied the experience made him superstitious about doing contract business once the games start to matter.

On Doughty, Holland acknowledged he’s aware of what his star defenseman recently said publicly — regarding his desire to stay in LA, finish his career here, and be captain — but stopped short of committing to anything.

“I need to sit down and talk with him; I have to figure all that out,” Holland said. “For this summer, I’m committed as a General Manager to try to make the team better. I can’t tell you what the future brings.”

While the extension conversation hasn’t started yet, Holland is scheduled to meet with Doughty next week to discuss where things stand overall following the team’s latest postseason loss.

Meanwhile, Clarke’s extension is expected to be a priority. How and when Doughty’s contract negotiations go down remains to be seen.

Full video of Holland’s press conference can be watched here.

Follow @mayorsmanor

MORE LA KINGS NEWS:

5 Key Things to Watch with the LA Kings Starting Right Now

10 Things We Learned at LA Kings Exit Interviews

REPORT: DJ Smith is a Candidate for Kings Head Coach, New Search Underway

Note to webmasters/reporters: When recapping news or interviews from this site please remember to include a link to www.MayorsManor.com

Friday night saw a huge bounce-back win for coach Andrew Lord’s Ontario Reign squad, as they defeated the visiting Firebirds 5-1 in Game 2 — now sending the series to Coachella Valley tied 1-1.

Similar to Game 1 a few nights earlier, it was a rocky start to begin with for Ontario when Lleyton Roed struck first to give the Firebirds an early edge.

Yet from that point on, the game flipped in favor of the home team. Logan Brown found the equalizer late in the opening frame, and the Reign never looked back.

Five straight goals, highlighted by a huge shorthanded marker from Kings prospect Franky Pinelli early in the third period, carried Ontario to its first playoff win since Game 3 of the 2024 Pacific Division Semifinals.

Three Takeaways from the Win:

Copper was Golden

A ripple of surprise moved through Toyota Arena when veteran netminder Pheonix Copley led the Reign onto the ice for warmups. Given that Erik Portillo made 30 saves in Game 1 — and was called out by Lord as one of the evening’s bright spots — the decision to swap netminders raised more than a few eyebrows.

That said, Copley delivered. He stopped 34-of-35 shots en route to the win and first-star honors.
Postgame, Lord was quick to note the team has rotated goalies all season, and this was no exception. When asked if that meant Portillo would get the nod in Game 3, Lord simply replied, “We’ll have to wait and see,” flashing a wry smile.

When it Reigns it Pours

No, not the Luke Combs song. After 77 minutes without a goal, Ontario finally broke through late in the first period. From there, it felt like a weight lifted. The floodgates didn’t just open — the Reign started to pour. Pressure mounted shift after shift, and this time, it translated into results.

It had felt like once that first one went in, more would likely follow. There had almost been a belief of ‘not if, but when’ surrounding the team’s collective firepower. Better late than never.

After an abysmal showing in Game 1, this was the offensive response they needed. So, maybe the rust was real.

Head coach Andrew Lord alluded to that postgame, calling Game 1 “a funny one,” noting that after a long layoff, strange things can happen. On this night, though, Ontario’s shine was back.

More Postgame Comments

In addition to Copley getting the start in net, Lord made one other significant roster change for Game 2 when Aatu Jamsen drew back in following an injury that kept him out of the series opener earlier in the week.

Lordo on the importance of Jamsen’s return tonight… pic.twitter.com/lLpznAJSes

— The Mayor | Team MM (@mayorNHL) May 2, 2026

Additional Lord comments can be found in the following tweets:

Franky Pinelli on Jack Hughes, who has put together two excellent games together thus far in the playoffs – – Feels like he is a really complete player right now. Confidence is obviously through the roof. He’s becoming a really good player. #GoKingsGo #ReignTrain

— Anthony Collazo (@anthonycollazo_) May 2, 2026

Lordo on Brzustewicz — He walked it the edge, but stopped just short of saying this was Bruce’s best game in a Reign uniform… pic.twitter.com/M9jfFK7D5K

— The Mayor | Team MM (@mayorNHL) May 2, 2026

Buckle up; this series is just getting started. Coachella Valley handled business in Game 1, and Ontario answered in Game 2. Expect adjustments on both sides heading into Game 3 on Tuesday night, where a hard-fought battle awaits in Coachella Valley. This one has all the makings of a long series. Enjoy the ride.

A deeper season review and analysis of several Kings prospects can be found in a recent interview with Lord linked below.

Follow @mayorsmanor

Lead photo by Delaney Donahue

MORE LA KINGS NEWS:

Kings Of The Podcast, Ep. 263 – Ending in LA, Starting in Ontario, and Guest Andrew Lord

AHL Round 2: Reign vs. Firebirds, Full Schedule and Series Preview + Notes on Andre Lee and More

Note to webmasters/reporters: When recapping news or interviews from this site please remember to include a link to www.MayorsManor.com

by Dan Adkisson

As the 2026 NHL Playoffs take center stage, the betting landscape is shaped by a mix of proven contenders and emerging threats. For sports fans across the United States, understanding team performance trends, advanced metrics, and late-season momentum is essential when evaluating Stanley Cup futures.  

This year’s field highlights a balance between established powerhouses and intriguing dark horses capable of disrupting expectations. From dominant Western Conference squads to surging Eastern Conference challengers, each team brings a unique profile that influences betting markets.  

Below is a breakdown of five teams drawing attention for their playoff potential. 

Colorado Avalanche: A Championship Core That Commands Respect

The Avalanche remain one of the most consistently respected teams in playoff betting markets due to their established championship foundation. Colorado’s structure is built around pace, puck movement, and the ability to create pressure in transition.  

Entering the 2026 playoffs, they continues to profile as a team that can control the flow of play and create sustained pressure against quality opponents.  

From a betting perspective, the Avalanche often appear among the Stanley Cup favorites because of their proven ability to perform under pressure. Their system allows them to dictate tempo, making them difficult opponents in a seven-game series. This consistency contributes to relatively shorter odds compared to most teams in the field. 

In addition, Colorado’s special teams add another layer to its playoff profile. Even if the power play has been uneven, the Avalanche still bring enough overall quality to remain a difficult team to price and game-plan against.  

Hockey props markets involving game totals and team-based outcomes are frequently monitored by bettors, where Colorado’s increasingly balanced approach can influence expectations. 

Ultimately, the Avalanche’s blend of experience and execution makes them a benchmark team in evaluating playoff futures. 

Carolina Hurricanes: Analytics Darling and Consistent Contender

The Hurricanes continue to stand out as one of the most analytically driven teams in the NHL. Their performance in advanced metrics, such as expected goals and shot attempt differentials, places them among the league’s most efficient teams entering the 2026 playoffs. This statistical dominance often translates into favorable betting lines. 

Carolina’s playing style emphasizes structured defense combined with aggressive forechecking. This approach limits opponent scoring chances while generating sustained offensive pressure. As a result, they frequently control game flow, a factor that appeals to bettors analyzing matchup consistency. 

In the futures market, the Hurricanes are often positioned just behind top-tier favorites. Their ability to maintain high performance levels throughout the regular season supports their reputation as a reliable contender.  

However, their playoff success often depends on converting strong underlying numbers into tangible results. 

Their disciplined approach also impacts totals markets, as games involving Carolina can trend toward controlled scoring environments. This makes them a key team to watch for bettors evaluating both outright winners and game-specific wagers. 

Minnesota Wild: Structured Hockey and Upset Potential in the West

Minnesota enter the next stage of the 2026 playoffs as a disciplined and defensively responsible team capable of challenging higher-seeded opponents in the Western Conference.  

Their identity is built around structured play, physical consistency, and a commitment to limiting high-danger scoring chances. This approach makes the Wild a difficult matchup for faster, more offensively driven teams. 

From a betting perspective, they present value as a team that can outperform expectations in tightly contested playoff series. While the Wild may not attract the same level of attention as some of the Conference favorites, their ability to control tempo and remain competitive in low-margin games enhances their appeal in underdog and series markets. Their disciplined style often keeps games closer than odds may initially suggest. 

Minnesota also thrives in physical, playoff-style environments where patience and defensive execution become increasingly important. Their ability to stay composed under pressure and capitalize on mistakes can shift momentum quickly in postseason matchups. This consistency gives bettors additional confidence when evaluating game-to-game performance trends throughout a series. 

Additionally, the Wild’s defensive structure and dependable goaltending frequently contribute to lower-scoring outcomes. Their preference for controlled pace and limited transition opportunities makes them a notable consideration in totals betting markets, particularly in playoff games where defensive intensity tends to increase. 

Philadelphia Flyers: Defensive Identity Fuels Dark Horse Status

Philadelphia has emerged as one of the most compelling dark horse teams heading into the 2026 playoffs. Their late-season surge was driven by a commitment to defensive discipline and improved consistency in their own zone. This transformation has elevated their standing in betting discussions. 

Their defensive play is characterized by strong positioning and effective puck management. These elements reduce high-risk scenarios and force opponents into less favorable scoring chances. Combined with steady goaltending, this approach has made them increasingly difficult to break down. 

In betting markets, the Flyers often offer longer odds than top contenders, which contributes to their dark-horse appeal. Their recent form suggests a team capable of outperforming expectations, particularly in matchups against more offensively focused opponents. 

Their style also influences totals betting, as games involving Philadelphia tend to feature tighter scoring margins. This controlled pace creates opportunities for bettors analyzing under-based outcomes and closely contested series dynamics. 

Buffalo Sabres: High-Octane Momentum Heading into the Playoffs

The Sabres bring a different dynamic into the 2026 playoffs, defined by offensive firepower and late-season momentum. Their ability to generate scoring chances at a high rate makes them one of the most unpredictable teams in the field. This volatility adds intrigue from a betting perspective. 

Buffalo’s aggressive offensive approach often leads to high-event games, where both scoring opportunities and defensive lapses can occur. This style creates variability in outcomes, which can influence odds across multiple betting markets. Their games frequently attract attention for higher totals projections. 

Momentum plays a significant role in Buffalo’s profile. Entering the playoffs on a strong run, they carry confidence that can translate into early-series success. This makes them a team worth monitoring in round-by-round betting scenarios. 

While their defensive consistency remains a question, their scoring ability ensures they’re never out of contention. This balance of risk and reward makes Buffalo an appealing team to monitor in betting markets, particularly when matchup volatility can create value.  

The Final Push Toward Stanley Cup Glory

As the 2026 NHL Playoffs unfold, the contrast between established favorites and emerging challengers creates a compelling betting landscape. Teams like Colorado and Carolina offer consistency backed by strong metrics, while Minnesota adds a disciplined, defense-first presence in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, Philadelphia and Buffalo introduce unpredictability, highlighting the importance of momentum and style of play. 

For sports fans evaluating playoff betting opportunities, understanding these team profiles is essential. Each contender brings unique strengths that influence game outcomes and market expectations.  

By focusing on performance trends and matchup dynamics, bettors can better navigate the complexities of the Stanley Cup race as it progresses toward its dramatic conclusion. 

All information in this article is for entertainment and educational purposes only. Always gamble responsibly and never wager more than you can afford. Having fun should be the prime focus.

Content reflects information available as of 2026/05/04; subject to change.