Jared Wright's 2025-26 Season: A Fast-Rising Star in the Los Angeles Kings' System
The Los Angeles Kings' system has been a hotbed of young talent, and one of the most exciting players to emerge is Jared Wright. In his rookie season with the Ontario Reign, Wright showcased his speed and skill, earning a spot on the NHL roster. His performance in the 2025-26 season has been nothing short of impressive, and it's time to take a closer look at what makes him a rising star in the NHL.
Speed and Skating Excellence
One of the most notable aspects of Wright's game is his speed. According to NHL EDGE data, Wright's max skating speed of over 23 miles per hour places him in the 88th percentile among players in the league. This elite speed is a game-changer, allowing him to impact the game on both ends of the ice. Wright's skating ability is a key factor in his forechecking prowess, drawing turnovers in the defensive zone, and transitioning quickly into offensive opportunities.
Offensive Potential and Production
While Wright's speed is a clear strength, his offensive production has been a bit of a mixed bag. In 23 games played for the Los Angeles Kings, he registered four assists and four total points. However, during a notable stretch in early April, Wright showed flashes of offensive potential, recording a point in three consecutive games. The Kings earned points in all three of those games, including two victories, highlighting Wright's ability to contribute when it matters most.
Grading the Season
Despite the limited production, Wright's overall performance in the 2025-26 season deserves a solid grade of B+. His speed and skating excellence, combined with his ability to impact the game in multiple ways, have solidified a bottom-six depth role in the NHL. Wright's skating speed is a valuable asset, and his ability to forecheck and draw turnovers is a significant contribution to the team's success.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future
As Wright steps into the 2026-27 season, all signs point to a continued role in the bottom six forward group. However, his future with the Kings could extend beyond that. If he can translate his goal-scoring ability from the AHL to the NHL level, his ceiling and role might expand. His elite skating ability and speed already make him a valuable player, and with more consistent offensive production, he could push into a larger middle-six role.
In my opinion, Wright's speed and skating excellence are a recipe for success. His ability to forecheck and draw turnovers is a game-changer, and if he can find his scoring touch at the NHL level, he'll become an even more valuable asset to the Kings. The future looks bright for Jared Wright, and his journey from the AHL to the NHL is a testament to his hard work and talent.
As Wright continues to develop and refine his game, he'll undoubtedly become a fan favorite and a key contributor to the Los Angeles Kings' success in the years to come.