A Strategic Move for the Kings
The Los Angeles Kings announced a three‑year entry‑level agreement with Swedish forward Elton Hermansson, locking the 19‑year‑old into the organization through the 2028‑29 season. The deal reflects the club’s confidence in the youngster’s upside after a breakout year in Europe.
Hermansson’s journey to the NHL began at the 2026 NHL Draft, where he was selected 19th overall. The Kings’ scouting department highlighted his size, work ethic and offensive instincts, traits that have already translated into strong numbers in the Swedish development system.
In the Swedish HockeyAllsvenskan, Hermansson posted 11 goals and 21 points across 38 appearances for Modo Hockey, while also contributing nine points in 13 games for the club’s U20 side. Prior to that, he recorded 17 goals and 36 points in 41 outings for Örebro HK Jr., underscoring a consistent scoring touch.
His breakout on the international stage came at the 2026 IIHF Men’s Under‑18 World Championships, where he helped Sweden capture gold and was named Best Forward after tallying 12 points in seven games. That performance added a compelling narrative to his already impressive résumé.
Despite the contract, Hermansson will not report to the Kings’ training camp this year. Instead, he is expected to continue developing with Modo Hockey in the HockeyAllsvenskan, where he will face a new set of challenges and opportunities to further refine his game.
General Manager Rob Blake praised the signing, noting that Hermansson’s blend of skill and competitiveness aligns perfectly with the Kings’ long‑term vision. The organization looks forward to seeing how the young Swede adapts to North American ice and eventually earns a spot in the lineup.