Will LA’s Loktionov be on the Move?

Different things have been swirling around about Kings forward, Andrei Loktionov. The situation between the AHL and KHL, not having his name on the cup and now tonight’s confirmation from his agent Igor Larionov that he will ask for a trade once the lockout is over. Hockey Prospectus’ very own Corey Pronman ranks Loktionov second overall in Los Angeles’ organizational top 10. In the article, Pronman has this to say about Andrei, “I actually think Loktionov has more pure upside than Voynov, but based on NHL accomplishments, I couldn’t rank him ahead. Loktionov is a fantastic talent with great speed, hands, and vision who one scout says “the sky is the limit” for despite his struggles in the NHL.” One would have to believe that this scout as well as Pronman are not alone on how they see Loktionov and the Kings could most likely get a pretty decent return for the Russian native.

According to multiple sources, Loktionov was set to play in the KHL during the lockout for HC Atlant, however, that will not happen. Loktionov will be reporting with fellow Russian Voynov to the AHL to play for LA’s affiliate, the Manchester Monarchs. Voynov was actually going to head back overseas as well since he was not assigned to Manchester initially. For fans of the Monarchs, you will get to see both in action.

Next up, Loktionov’s name not on the cup. Why the hell not? When pictures were released, you saw two names that stuck out that maybe should not have been there or at least if they were there, Andrei should have been as well. Those two players are Davis Drewiske, who only suited up for 9 games and Kevin Westgarth – he played in 25 games. Think about when Boston won the cup, Kampfer didn’t get his name on there and he played 38 games, which was one less than how many Loktionov appeared in during the season. Andrei also had two playoff games, therefore contributing to the run they had. Take it a step further, you find out that the organization did not even petition for Loktionov to get his name on the cup, that’s ridiculous. However, the cup did get a new addition to it after Justin Williams. Loktionov’s name is at the very end of the players list. Does this change really change anything? It’s nice that it is now there but the fact that they initially did not even attempt to get his name on it is just not right by any means.

Loktionov has the potential to be a regular NHLer. It does not look like he will get a chance to be that in Los Angeles. The Kings drafted him in the fifth round (123rd overall) during the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. He has played in 59 NHL games where he has recorded 7 goals, 7 assists and 4PIM. Not the best stats but if given the chance with a decent amount of playing time, the kid will find himself on the score sheet. Will LA regret losing a guy like Andrei? They just might but we will have to wait and see what happens with him once the new CBA is in place.

Written by: Michael Gomez on September 30, 2012.