9/23 Preview - Last Chance U, Bubble Players Talk Camp Battles + Haula on Early Days & Lineup Thoughts

Key Points:

• The Los Angeles Kings (0-2-0) face the Anaheim Ducks (1-0-0) in the 2026 NHL preseason on Wednesday, September 23 at 7:00 PM Pacific, marking the first of two matchups this week between the teams.
• The Kings will feature a mix of players who have yet to appear in the preseason, including forwards Joel Armia, Erik Haula, Alex Laferriere, Alex Turcotte, and veteran defensemen Drew Doughty and Brian Dumoulin, with Anton Forsberg expected to start in goal.
• Anaheim’s lineup is expected to include a blend of veterans and younger players, with former Kings forward Jeff Malott and defenseman Pavel Mintyukov potentially making their exhibition debuts.
• Tonight’s game is a critical opportunity for players on the roster bubble to impress coaching staff ahead of Saturday’s full roster preseason finale, with several players pushing to secure spots amid a competitive camp environment.
• Key storylines include Erik Haula’s preseason debut with the Kings, potential line combinations involving Turcotte, Laferriere, Haula, and Armia, and Drew Doughty’s expected first appearance wearing the captain’s "C" this preseason.