The 2025-26 NHL season was a pivotal one for the Los Angeles Kings, and defenseman Joel Edmundson played a crucial role in the team's performance. This review delves into Edmundson's contributions, highlighting both his strengths and areas for improvement.
A Defensive Rock
Edmundson's game is built on consistency and reliability. When healthy, he excels in minimizing his weaknesses while maximizing his strengths. His ability to control the puck in the defensive zone is remarkable, as evidenced by the fact that he carried the puck out of the zone fewer times than any other Kings defenseman, yet did so at a more efficient rate. This efficiency is a testament to his understanding of his role and his commitment to playing within his capabilities.
In the 2025-26 season, Edmundson's performance was particularly impressive when he was operating at full strength. He was on the ice for 1.69 goals against per 60 minutes in 5-on-5 situations, ranking fifth among defensemen with at least 500 minutes played. This consistency made him a reliable partner for Brandt Clarke, forming the most effective and consistent pairing on the team.
Offensive Contributions
While Edmundson is not an offensive powerhouse, he made significant strides in that department this season. He set career highs in assists (21) and points (23), and his 0.76 assists per 60 minutes in 5-on-5 situations ranked him in the top-third of the league. This improvement can be attributed to the increased offensive-zone starts he received while playing with Clarke. Edmundson's ability to contribute offensively, even if not as a primary scorer, adds depth to the team's overall performance.
The Impact of Injury
However, Edmundson's season took a turn when he suffered an injury on January 24 in St. Louis. Playing through the injury, he admitted he could have sat out to heal properly. Unfortunately, his performance suffered as a result. His goals against per 60 minutes rose by nearly a full goal, and his expected goals against per 60 minutes were the highest on the team during that period. The injury clearly impacted his effectiveness, as evidenced by the increase in high-danger chances against while he was on the ice.
Penalty Kill Challenges
Another area of concern for Edmundson was his performance on the penalty kill. He was on the ice for 36 power-play goals against, the second-highest total among Kings defensemen. While this is to be expected given his heavy usage on the penalty kill, his goals against per 60 minutes in shorthanded situations ranked him eighth-worst among defensemen with at least 100 shorthanded minutes. The team's penalty kill struggled overall, and Edmundson's role in those struggles cannot be overlooked.
Team Dynamics and Contract Status
The Kings' decision to double down on similar defensemen last summer may have been a strategic move, but it ultimately led to a step back in performance. Edmundson, while effective, was part of the lowest-scoring group of blueliners in the NHL. This group's inability to move the puck effectively from the backend contributed to the team's struggles. As Edmundson's contract is now two seasons into a four-year deal, the Kings will need to re-evaluate their defensemen this summer, which could impact his future with the team.
In conclusion, Joel Edmundson's 2025-26 season showcased his reliability and consistency as a defenseman. While he made significant contributions, his injury and penalty kill struggles highlight areas for improvement. As the Kings navigate their defensemen's future, Edmundson's role and performance will be crucial in shaping the team's success in the upcoming seasons.
