LAS VEGAS — Unlike other teams, the Kings didn’t have an abundance of selections at the 2024 NHL Entry Draft because of various trades, but they still accumulated prospect depth in a variety of areas.
After taking forward Liam Greentree with the No. 26 overall pick, general manager Rob Blake made phone calls to three more youngsters, in rounds two, six and seven.
Round 2, No. 57 overall: Carter George, G
LA’s netminder pipeline is quite bare, so taking a confident goalie in the earlier rounds wasn’t a bad call by any means, especially one who grew up as a Kings fan. Carter George was one of the more highly rated goaltender prospects coming out of the Canadian juniors, standing 6-foot-1 and 194 pounds.
George’s raw numbers weren’t stellar in 2023-24, but neither were his team’s; the Ontario Hockey League’s Owen Sound Attack made the playoffs, but finished under .500. Simply put, giving up a hefty amount of shots will do that to a team, as George faced an OHL-leading 1,923 this past season.
This stat makes George’s 3.30 goals-against average and .907 save percentage a bit misleading, as he was a main contributor to Owen Sound’s wins. He was credited with 21 of the team’s 29 victories with four shutouts in 56 appearances. His best showing came on Nov. 23, 2023, when made 50 stops against the Barrie Colts and kept them scoreless. He also thrived at Under-18 World Juniors this year, going undefeated with six wins, a 2.33 GAA and .915 save percentage.
George moves the puck with ease, always staying composed and confident. While he doesn’t possess a huge frame, he plays much bigger than he looks and always keeps a firm eye on the puck. He’ll aim to progress through a Kings’ goaltender pipeline still navigating the post-Jonathan Quick era.
Round 6, No. 164 overall: Jared Woolley, D
The Kings acquired the No. 164 overall pick via a trade with the Anaheim Ducks which they used to select Jared Woolley out of the OHL. A member of the league-winning London Knights, the 18-year-old posted five points in 37 games, plus three points in the playoffs. This came following a 19-game stint in the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League, where he played at a point-per-game pace.
As a left-hander, Woolley is a force in the defensive zone. He’s scary to face, boasting a commanding 6-foot-4, 214-pound frame and exerting his toughness on the regular. He’s never afraid to lay down a big hit, trap his opponents or use his body to create space for others.
When he returns to London next season, Woolley will want to emphasize showcasing his offensive ability across a full season of action. On a team that just fell short in the Memorial Cup, he’ll aim to use his physical strength to continue manning the blue line.
While he was a late-round pick, his untapped potential on a premier OHL side should catch the attention of Kings scouts as the season turns over.
Round 7, No. 198 overall: James Reeder, RW
James Reeder elevated his game in the United States Hockey League in 2023-24, reaching the 60-point mark with 20 goals and 40 helpers. A University of Denver commit, Reeder is fast, elusive and crafty with the puck.
Despite being a smaller 5-foot-10 and 170-pound skater, Reeder’s well-trained hockey eye helps him make intelligent decisions and overcome his frame. He often thoroughly scans the ice to find the right play, using his speed in all three zones to win the puck and outmatch opponents.
Likely still growing at 18 years old, Reeder should aim to hit the weight room when he joins national champion Denver. After a solid season in the USHL, scooping him up in the final round represents strong value for Blake and company. Reeder is an offensive weapon with room to grow, literally and figuratively, before he makes the push into the pros. Reeder’s skill set is built on a high motor and his keen vision makes him a promising youngster.