D.J. Smith's Bittersweet Journey as Kings' Interim Coach in Stanley Cup Playoffs
D.J. Smith is leading a playoff series, but it's bittersweet because of who he replaced
Los Angeles Times
Image: Los Angeles Times
D.J. Smith, the interim head coach of the Los Angeles Kings, is leading the team in the Stanley Cup playoffs after taking over from Jim Hiller. Despite a tough loss to the Colorado Avalanche in Game 1, Smith aims to leverage his past experiences and make strategic adjustments to advance the Kings beyond the first round for the first time in over a decade.
- 01D.J. Smith took over as interim head coach of the Kings after Jim Hiller's dismissal.
- 02The Kings lost 2-1 to the Colorado Avalanche in Game 1 of the playoffs.
- 03Smith aims to improve the team's physicality and puck control in upcoming games.
- 04His previous coaching experience in Ottawa has informed his current strategy.
- 05The Kings have a chance to even the series in Game 2 before returning home.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
D.J. Smith, who grew up in Windsor, Ontario, is now coaching the Los Angeles Kings in the Stanley Cup playoffs, a dream come true for the lifelong hockey fan. Taking over from Jim Hiller, who was fired with 23 games left in the regular season, Smith has led the Kings to a wild-card berth. In their playoff opener against the Colorado Avalanche, the Kings narrowly lost 2-1, with Smith emphasizing the need for strategic adjustments to enhance their performance. He highlighted the importance of physical play and maintaining puck possession, stating, 'We need more zone time.' Smith's previous head coaching experience in Ottawa, where he struggled to achieve a winning record, has equipped him with valuable lessons for this high-stakes moment. The Kings have not advanced past the first round in over a decade, and Smith's success could lead to him shedding the interim label. His leadership has already sparked a renewed sense of urgency and cohesion among the players, as they prepare for Game 2 in hopes of leveling the series.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Smith's leadership could revitalize the Kings and enhance community support for the team, especially if they progress further in the playoffs.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Can D.J. Smith lead the Kings past the first round of the playoffs?
Connecting to poll...
More about Los Angeles Kings
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.



