In the fast-paced world of professional ice hockey, the Los Angeles Kings have been quietly cultivating a young talent who is set to make waves in the 2026-27 season. Jared Wright, a forward with lightning speed and a knack for forechecking, has already made a significant impact in the NHL, despite his relatively short tenure in the league. This article delves into Wright's journey, his performance in the 2025-26 season, and what the future holds for this rising star.
A Lightning-Fast Rise to Prominence
Jared Wright's journey to the NHL has been nothing short of extraordinary. His breakout rookie season with the Ontario Reign in the AHL was a testament to his hard work and natural talent. Wright's ability to register 17 goals, 14 assists, and 31 total points in just 54 games was a remarkable feat, earning him a spot on the NHL roster. This was a significant achievement, considering his speed and skill set.
What makes Wright's rise particularly fascinating is his ability to adapt to the NHL pace. In just 23 games played in the 2025-26 season, Wright demonstrated his worth, recording four assists and four total points. His performance was even more impressive during the postseason, where he played all four games in the first round against the Colorado Avalanche. Wright's speed and forechecking ability were invaluable assets for the Kings, and his impact was felt on both ends of the ice.
The NHL EDGE Data: A Speedster's Perspective
According to NHL EDGE data, Wright's skating speed is a standout feature. With a max skating speed of over 23 miles per hour, he ranked in the 88th percentile among players in the league. This speed is not just a statistic; it's a game-changer. Wright's ability to outpace opponents and create scoring opportunities is a rare talent, and it's one that the Kings have recognized and capitalized on.
What many people don't realize is that Wright's speed is not just about speed for speed's sake. It's about creating opportunities and impacting the game in meaningful ways. His speed allows him to be a force in the offensive zone, drawing turnovers and creating scoring chances. On the defensive end, his speed helps him recover quickly and initiate the forecheck, making him a valuable asset in transition play.
Offensive Potential and Production
One of the most intriguing aspects of Wright's game is his offensive potential. In a particular stretch in early April, Wright showed flashes of brilliance, recording a point in three consecutive games. The Kings earned points in all three of those games, including two victories. This period highlighted Wright's ability to contribute offensively and his impact on the team's success.
However, the problem for Wright is that his production has been limited. With zero goals and four total points in 27 games played between the regular season and the postseason, he has been confined to a bottom-six role. This is a common challenge for young players, and Wright's case is no different. While his speed and skill set are undeniable, his production needs to increase to justify a larger role.
2025-26 Season Grade: B+
Despite the production limitations, Wright's overall performance in the 2025-26 season deserves a B+. His speed, forechecking ability, and impact on the team's success were significant. Wright has exceeded expectations and earned a bottom-six depth role in the NHL with the Kings. His elite skating speed and offensive upside make him a valuable addition to the roster, and his role is likely to expand in the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead: 2026-27 Season and Beyond
All signs point to Wright having a prominent role in the bottom six for the Kings in the 2026-27 season. With new head coach Peter Laviolette at the helm, Wright will compete in training camp and the preseason to solidify his spot. If he can translate more of the goal-scoring ability he showed in Ontario to the NHL level, his ceiling and role could extend beyond the fourth line.
In my opinion, Wright's elite skating ability and speed already give him a valuable NHL-level tool. This could push him into a larger middle-six role for the Kings with more consistent offensive production. The key for Wright will be to build on his speed and forechecking ability while increasing his goal-scoring output. If he can do that, he will become an even more valuable asset to the team.
In conclusion, Jared Wright is a rising star in the NHL, and his journey to this point has been remarkable. His speed, skill set, and impact on the game are undeniable. With the right guidance and development, Wright has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Los Angeles Kings' future success. As he steps into the 2026-27 season, the hockey world will be watching closely to see how he continues to evolve and make his mark on the league.
