The Los Angeles Kings are exploring multiple options as they evaluate candidates for their next head coach. While former New York Rangers coach Peter Laviolette has drawn attention, he is not the only name under consideration. According to the report, the Kings have also shown interest in Manny Malhotra, indicating that the team is casting a wide net as it looks for the right fit behind the bench.
Interim coach DJ Smith has also been mentioned in the process, though his chances of landing the permanent role are described as unlikely. Still, his inclusion suggests the Kings are at least considering internal and familiar options as part of a broader review. The team appears to be weighing experience, style, and availability as it works through its coaching search.
Bruce Cassidy is said to be the biggest name linked to the Kings at this stage. The former Vegas Golden Knights coach has established himself as one of the NHL’s top bench bosses, and Los Angeles reportedly has interest in speaking with him. However, the team has not yet had the opportunity to do so. That leaves Cassidy as a high-profile possibility, but not yet an active part of the interview process.
The coaching search reflects a pivotal moment for the Kings as they look to position themselves for future success. With several candidates in the mix, the organization is expected to continue evaluating both established coaches and rising names as it determines who can best lead the roster moving forward.
Laviolette brings significant NHL experience and a long track record as a head coach, which makes him a logical candidate for a team seeking a proven leader. Malhotra represents a different profile, with a more developmental or less traditional path, depending on how the Kings view his potential and fit. Smith, meanwhile, offers familiarity and recent in-season experience as interim coach, though his long-term prospects may be limited.
Cassidy stands apart because of his recent championship-level success and reputation across the league. If the Kings are able to connect with him, he could quickly become one of the most compelling options in the search. For now, though, the process remains ongoing, and no final decision appears imminent.
The Kings’ willingness to consider multiple candidates suggests they are taking a deliberate approach. Rather than moving quickly on a single choice, the organization seems focused on identifying the best match for its goals, roster, and expectations. As the search develops, the names linked to the job could change, but at this point Laviolette, Malhotra, Smith, and Cassidy are all part of the conversation in varying degrees.
In the end, the Kings are not limiting themselves to one obvious frontrunner. They are looking at a range of possibilities, from proven NHL veterans to less likely but still notable options, as they search for the coach who can guide the team into its next chapter.
