The Unsung Hero of the Los Angeles Kings' Defense
Let's talk about Mikey Anderson, the unsung hero of the Los Angeles Kings' defense. In recent years, Anderson has quietly solidified his position as a cornerstone of the team's success, and his performance in the 2025-26 season further cements his importance.
A Defensive Rock
Personally, I've always admired players who excel in the less glamorous aspects of the game, and Anderson fits that bill perfectly. His role as a top-pairing defenseman is often underappreciated, but it's a crucial one. Anderson's ability to shut down opponents and make smart plays in his own zone is invaluable. What makes him stand out is his consistency and reliability, which are essential traits for any team's defensive core.
This past season, Anderson continued to showcase his defensive prowess, registering 20 points in 80 games. While these numbers might not jump off the page, they only tell part of the story. His impact goes far beyond the stat sheet. Anderson's 133 blocked shots, a career-high, demonstrate his commitment to sacrificing his body for the team's success. This is a player who embodies the old adage, 'defense wins championships.'
The Perfect Partner
What's even more impressive is his partnership with veteran Drew Doughty. Together, they formed a formidable duo, leading the Kings in 5-on-5 expected goals for percentage. This pairing highlights Anderson's adaptability and his ability to complement a star player like Doughty. In my opinion, this is a testament to his hockey IQ and his understanding of the game's nuances.
Special Teams Ace
Anderson's value extends beyond even-strength play. He's a stalwart on the penalty kill, a role he has consistently excelled in for the past four seasons. His ability to read plays and anticipate opponents' moves is a key reason why the Kings have boasted one of the top defenses in the NHL. From my perspective, Anderson's defensive awareness is on par with some of the league's best.
However, it's worth noting that his even-strength numbers took a slight dip this season. While he still ranked fourth among Kings defensemen in on-ice 5-on-5 goals-for percentage, it's an area where he had excelled in the previous campaign. This raises a deeper question: How can Anderson further elevate his game at even strength? I believe the answer lies in finding ways to contribute more offensively without compromising his defensive responsibilities.
Looking Ahead
As we anticipate the 2026-27 season, Anderson's role remains secure. With five years left on his contract, he will undoubtedly be a stable presence on the Kings' blue line. I predict that with improved play from his defensive partners, Anderson's overall numbers will rise, potentially reaching the heights of his stellar 2024-25 season.
One thing to keep an eye on is his power-play time. While he saw increased minutes on the power play last season due to injuries and team struggles, it's unlikely to continue under the new head coach. This is a detail that I find intriguing, as it suggests a potential shift in strategy for the Kings' special teams.
In summary, Mikey Anderson is the kind of player every team needs: reliable, consistent, and defensively sound. His performance this season earns him a solid B+ in my book. As we look forward, I'm excited to see how Anderson continues to evolve and contribute to the Kings' success, even if it means his impressive work goes somewhat unnoticed by the casual fan.
