Jared Wright's 2025-26 Season: A Speedy Rise and Future Potential
The Los Angeles Kings' 2025-26 season was a testament to the team's ability to develop young talent, with Jared Wright emerging as a standout performer. Wright's journey to the NHL has been a remarkable one, and his recent season with the Ontario Reign in the AHL showcased his potential as a dynamic forward.
The AHL Breakthrough
Wright's rookie season with the Reign was a success, amassing 17 goals, 14 assists, and 31 points in 54 games. His +27 rating was a testament to his impact on the team's performance, solidifying his role as a key contributor. This performance caught the eye of the Kings, who called him up to the NHL for the stretch run.
NHL Debut and Impact
In his first taste of the NHL, Wright made an immediate impact. In 23 games, he registered four assists and four points, a solid start for a rookie. His performance extended into the postseason, where he played all four games in the first round against the Colorado Avalanche, showcasing his ability to handle the pressure of playoff hockey.
Speed and Skating Excellence
One of Wright's most notable attributes is his speed. According to NHL EDGE data, Wright's max skating speed exceeded 23 miles per hour, placing him in the 88th percentile among league skaters. This speed is a game-changer, allowing him to impact the forecheck, draw turnovers, and transition quickly. His ability to use speed in both offensive and defensive situations is a valuable asset for any team.
Offensive Potential
Wright's offensive capabilities were on full display during a three-game stretch in early April. He recorded a point in each of those games, contributing to the Kings' success. However, his lack of goal-scoring in the regular season and postseason (zero goals in 27 games) limited his role to a bottom-six position.
Grade: B+
Despite the production gap, Wright's overall performance earned him a B+ grade for the season. His speed, skating ability, and forechecking skills are a recipe for success, and his potential to contribute more offensively in the future is evident.
Looking Ahead: 2026-27 Season
As the Kings prepare for the 2026-27 season, Wright is expected to remain in a bottom-six role. However, his future could extend beyond that. With his elite skating ability and speed, he has the potential to push for a larger middle-six role if he can translate his goal-scoring prowess from the AHL to the NHL. His special teams play, particularly on the penalty kill, is also an area to watch, as he looks to solidify his spot on the Kings' roster.
In conclusion, Jared Wright's 2025-26 season was a promising start to his NHL career. His speed, skating, and forechecking skills make him a valuable asset, and with the right development, he could become a key contributor for the Los Angeles Kings in the years to come.
