Evgeni Malkin's future with the Pittsburgh Penguins is in question as he enters the final year of his contract. Despite speculation, both Malkin and the Penguins have not made any decision about his potential retirement or continuation. With Malkin's performance of 50 points in 68 games this season, the team is reportedly looking to rejuvenate its roster, leaving his next steps uncertain.

Meanwhile, general managers around the league are preparing for upcoming trades as free agency approaches. Los Angeles Kings GM Ken Holland discussed potential trades and contract negotiations with key players, including Anze Kopitar, who is also in the last year of his deal. Expect significant roster changes as teams gear up for the draft and free agency.

Voting for the NHL awards is a significant responsibility, with numerous players showing merit for recognition. Brogan Houston shares insights from his voting process, emphasizing a thorough examination of stats, film, and discussions with knowledgeable peers. The Hart Trophy was awarded to Connor Hellebuyck, who was pivotal in leading the Winnipeg Jets to the Presidents’ Trophy, while Cale Makar claimed the Norris Trophy for his remarkable defensive prowess coupled with offensive output.

Lane Hutson, leading all rookie defensemen in scoring, secured the Calder Trophy. The Lady Byng went to Anže Kopitar for his sportsmanship, and the Selke Trophy recognized Sam Reinhart's defensive excellence. The NHL All-Star selections featured prominent players like Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid, showcasing the league's top talent. Houston invites discourse on his choices, reflecting the ongoing debates surrounding NHL awards.

Anze Kopitar of the Los Angeles Kings has secured his third Lady Byng Trophy, awarded for exemplary sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct in the NHL. The announcement came during a family vacation in Slovenia while he was golfing with his father, where his children broke the news to him. In the 2024-25 season, Kopitar played 81 games, received only two minor penalties totaling four minutes, and scored 67 points (21 goals, 46 assists). This marks Kopitar's status as one of just ten players in history to win the Lady Byng three times.

Kopitar, now 37, expressed that winning the award means more than just recognition; it represents a commitment to being a role model in the sport. He has also been awarded two Stanley Cups and twice the Selke Trophy for best defensive forward. His remarkable balance of offense and discipline continues to enhance his legacy in the NHL and the Kings franchise.

The Los Angeles Kings have appointed Hall of Fame executive Ken Holland as their new general manager, succeeding Rob Blake, who stepped down from the position earlier this month. Holland, known for his successful tenure with the Detroit Red Wings and more recently the Edmonton Oilers, faces the challenge of unlocking the potential of a talented Kings roster that has struggled in the playoffs despite consistent regular season performance.

Holland’s track record includes leading the Red Wings to four Stanley Cup championships and guiding the Oilers to multiple playoff appearances with star players Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. He will now work on improving the Kings’ playoff success, as they have not advanced past the first round since their last Cup win in 2014. Key decisions await him regarding free agents like Vladislav Gavrikov and Andrei Kuzmenko, as well as the future of veteran defenseman Drew Doughty.

The Los Angeles Kings' promising season ended in disappointment after a first-round playoff exit against the Edmonton Oilers, marking the team’s 11th consecutive season without a playoff series win. Despite tying franchise records for wins and points, the Kings fell short, losing the series 4-2. The Kings dominated early games at home but faltered in critical moments, such as Game 3 and Game 4, where they relinquished leads that could have shifted the series' outcome.

The Kings had high hopes this postseason, especially after acquiring Andrei Kuzmenko at the trade deadline, leading to a strong finish in regular season play. However, missed opportunities and a struggle on defense during critical periods proved costly. Team captain Anze Kopitar expressed frustration over the outcome, emphasizing the pain of coming up short despite the team's talent and potential to succeed in the playoffs.