What Erik Haula Could Bring to the LA Kings This Season – The Hockey Writers –

A recent addition to the Los Angeles Kings this offseason was the signing of free agent Erik Haula. The 5-foot-11 Finnish forward was added to the group for depth and his strong two-way play. Having come off 24 assists and a 38-point season in 81 games, Haula just might be the glue that provides the Kings with a steady and reliable presence. So, let’s take a closer look at where he can fit in the lineup and how he can contribute to both ends of the ice.

The Basic Rundown

Haula was first introduced to the professional league after being drafted by the Minnesota Wild in 2009. Selected in the seventh round, 182nd overall, he has since recorded 167 goals, 208 assists and 375 points in 840 career games. He made his NHL debut during the 2013-14 season with the Wild, spending four seasons with the club before moving on to play for several other teams and experience new cities throughout his career.

Haula signed a two-year contract with Los Angeles worth an average annual value (AAV) of $3.6 million after spending the 2025-26 season with the Nashville Predators. While his statistics from the previous season might not jump off the page, Haula can bring value and experience to the team as a veteran forward. Having spent more than 10 seasons in the NHL, he can serve as a guide and lead the younger core, sharing his experience and helping them develop on and off the ice.

A Friend in the Locker Room

It should be noted that Haula is not arriving in Los Angeles completely unfamiliar with his new surroundings. Growing up in Pori, Finland, Haula and teammate Joel Armia went to school together and have known each other since childhood. After spending the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan not only as teammates but also as roommates, Armia and Haula developed an even closer bond.

Whether Armia and Haula will be on the same line is unknown, but considering their off-ice chemistry, it could be an interesting combination for the Kings to test. Not to mention, having someone familiar could help Haula get adjusted to the Southern California culture and lifestyle while settling into his new home.

So, Where Does That Leave L.A.?

My guess is that Haula will slide into a middle-six role, as his two-way game could make him dependable on the third line. At the same time, Haula can bring some playmaking ability and set up scoring chances for his teammates. For now, it seems to be a good fit for the Kings to explore and try Haula on the third line. Considering the team’s road schedule, he could become an important piece for Los Angeles when they face tougher opponents.

His experience in the NHL should allow him to handle pressure and challenging matchups while helping the team remain competitive. It shouldn’t be forgotten that he could help to produce more offense. While the Kings shouldn’t expect Haula to suddenly become a 70-point scorer, his speed and strength could help him move the puck effectively and create opportunities for his linemates. As a secondary scoring option, he could thrive in that role and provide the Kings with a reliable offensive presence.

What Fans Can Expect

Expect consistency and reliability. Haula seems to be the type of forward who adds to the lineup in a non-flashy way. At 35 years old, he is entering the later stages of his career; however, that shouldn’t be seen as a negative. If the Finn could produce 40-50 points this season, then Los Angeles would be safe and in good hands. His 38-point season with the Predators showed he’s still capable, and he could become an important piece of the team. For an organization looking to take another step forward, I think this was a well-done move by the Kings.