For D.J. Smith, moving forward starts with letting go of the past.
He’s not just talking about the struggles of this current season but also how last season’s heartbreaking loss to the Edmonton Oilers still hangs over the team. The Kings, who once seemed full of promise, have been shaken ever since that moment. Smith believes they need to acknowledge that pain before moving on. “That loss affected us, and it ends now,” he stated. Recognizing the past is the first step toward healing and rebuilding confidence.
Smith, who became the head coach after joining the Kings as an assistant in 2024, brings familiarity to the role. His prior experience will help him navigate this challenging time. As he addressed the team, his message was clear: it’s time for a fresh start. “We need to work hard and believe in ourselves again,” he urged. Players like Adrian Kempe echoed this sentiment, admitting the team is currently playing with uncertainty rather than confidence, especially at home—a crucial aspect since they rank low in home wins this season.
Once a team filled with swagger and self-assurance, the Kings need to reclaim that energy. Smith’s goal is to instill belief and a winning mentality. “We’ve got good players and young talent. It’s time to feel good about ourselves again,” he emphasized. Some players must step up, both in their performance and leadership. They need to take accountability for their roles and work together to rediscover their confidence.
Despite the significant changes, expecting immediate results is unrealistic. Ken Holland, a key figure in the organization, mentioned that Smith will introduce some tweaks rather than a complete overhaul. Smith, recognizing the uphill battle, focused on manageable goals. He’s determined to foster a positive mindset and push the team to outwork their opponents. This philosophy caters to each player’s strengths while balancing solid defense with effective offense—a crucial component the Kings have struggled to maintain this season.
Statistically, the Kings have been lacking defensively, allowing too many odd-man rushes, particularly since Christmas. Smith pointed out a power play that needs a solid identity, as successful teams master puck retrieval and pressure tired penalty killers. By empowering young players and trusting them more in various situations, he hopes to cultivate a balanced lineup that excels on both ends of the ice.
Historically, being able to scrape through a rough patch isn’t new for teams. Many past champions have faced tough seasons before turning things around, often driven by a collective belief in their potential. The Kings have 23 games left to prove they can rise from their current situation. What remains essential is the collective effort and attitude during this transitional phase.
The energy Smith has brought to his first day in charge is promising. He hasn’t made grand promises but has expressed his commitment to the team’s growth. The path ahead won’t be easy, especially with upcoming games against top competitors. But with Smith’s leadership style and the players’ determination, there’s hope that they can at least take the first steps toward recovery.
To hear more from D.J. Smith, you can watch his full press conference, which provides insightful thoughts on his strategies and vision. [Watch here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IV3i3oRsKas).
