The Los Angeles Kings kick-started the Ken Holland era by selecting defenseman Henry Brzustewicz as the No. 31 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.
Los Angeles Kings Select Henry Brzustewicz In NHL Draft
There was no question that the Kings were entering the draft intending to make a move. Prior to Friday’s ceremony, newly appointed general manager Holland made it evident that he wants to keep Los Angeles competitive. In doing so, continued activity in the rumor mill and transaction logs should be expected.
With his first major decision as the Kings’ GM, Holland shipped the No. 24 overall pick to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for pick No. 31 and No. 59. By doing so, LA emerges into the second round and provides more draft capital for potential big trades.
Nonetheless, the Kings and Holland addressed the blue line with their first-round selection. Brzustewicz is coming off a 67-game season with the London Knights, where he recorded 42 points (10 goals, 32 assists) and had a +24 plus-minus on the year. Though the 18-year-old is by no means the best defender in his class, his emergence in the Ontario Hockey League is a promising sign for the Kings organization.
“This is a surreal feeling — a dream come true,” Brzustewicz said after being named a first-round pick (h/t Jim Hill of Sports Central LA). “Pressure makes diamonds, and pressure is a privilege. Once [I] get that pressure, I want to play better, and I think I thrive under pressure.”
Now stepping into a major market like Los Angeles, Brzustewicz will have the opportunity to become the diamond that he sees himself becoming. However, despite being a first-rounder, Brzustewicz will have to work his way up the Kings’ rotation.
It’s important to note that the 2024-25 season was just a glimpse of the right-shot defenseman’s potential. Brzustewicz was on a stacked Knights squad that was far and away the best team in the OHL. Playing alongside such talent limited Brzustewicz’s minutes, but in the ice time he had, he was effective.
The LA Kings are adding a two-way threat who could work his way into the middle of the lineup, given his natural defensive instincts and his ability to contribute to the attack. His 6-foot-2-inch frame alongside his impressive skating ability gives him the tools to be a standout pick in this year’s draft and a solid defenseman.
“My hockey IQ,” Brzustewicz added in response to what he believes is his best attribute. “My anticipation, reading plays, seeing plays and everything like that.”
The Brzustewicz pick likely hasn’t turned many heads, but the Michigan native could earn himself valuable minutes in due time.
Additionally, being alongside his former Knights teammate and best friend Jared Woolley — Kings’ sixth-round draft pick in 2024 — could give Brzustewicz an extra grain of confidence and comfort as he looks to start his professional career.