Pagnotta: Kings close to naming head coach

Los Angeles Kings nearing next coaching hire

The Los Angeles Kings are close to naming their next head coach, with multiple candidates under consideration. Evolving information centers on former Edmonton Oilers head coach Jay Woodcroft, who is described as among the leading options.

The coaching-search development is significant because the Kings are transitioning at a key moment where roster decisions, on-ice identity, and player development all get tied to the coach’s style. In NHL seasons, the head coach’s emphasis—structure, forechecking philosophy, special teams approaches, and how roles are defined—can quickly alter a team’s trajectory.

Woodcroft’s mention matters in this context because he is associated with a particular coaching background from Edmonton. While the summary doesn’t confirm he is the final choice, being singled out as a leading candidate suggests the organization is prioritizing a known set of ideas rather than starting from scratch.

What to watch next

• The Kings are “close” to making an announcement.
• Jay Woodcroft is listed as one of the top candidates.

Because no final hire is confirmed in the provided summary, the immediate takeaway is simply that the Kings’ search is nearing the finish line. Once the hire is announced, the next questions will likely be how quickly the coach can install systems and how coaching staff decisions follow.

For fans, the timing is important: a coaching change this late in the cycle shapes offseason work, including how players are evaluated and how training and messaging are tailored ahead of the next season.