Kings Article: LA Kings D Prospect Zach Leslie Remains Positive While Biding Time With Ontario Reign

[FrozenRoyalty]

He hasn't played much at all this season, just five games with the Ontario Reign of the AHL. But that hasn't stopped or discouraged LA Kings defenseman prospect Zach Leslie, who is keeping his head held high, and his focus where it should be.

To read exclusive comments from Leslie and Reign head coach Mike Stothers about his young defenseman and his development, check out:

LA Kings D Prospect Zach Leslie Remains Positive While Biding Time With Ontario Reign

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Leslie is the most skilled puck-mover in the Kings defensive prospect core, and it's extremely frustrating watching Schultz play every night and Leslie riding the pine, especially with the difficulty the Reign are going to have scoring with Kempe and Mersch elsewhere right now. He doesn't seem to be a liability defensively, and he takes chances in the offensive zone, that's for sure .

 

[PJ Kings Hockey]

I've liked this kid since he was drafted, but it seems he'll have a hard time breaking in. Ceiling is, what, 5-6 D, if that?

 

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I've liked this kid since he was drafted, but it seems he'll have a hard time breaking in. Ceiling is, what, 5-6 D, if that?

Pros: If he can get substantially stronger in the next 2 years, I think his ceiling is 2nd pairing LHD. He is definitely an offensive defensemen. He is an excellent skater, he has a good, heavy shot, is a good puck mover and passer (sees the ice well). He runs the PP with authority, and will get better with experience.

Cons: Jumps into the offensive play a bit too much taking risks, some of it probably because he is trying too hard to make an impression. Size and strength need to improve, and his defense, like all young defensemen needs some improvement.