Matt Frattin

Frattin joins the Kings after an offseason trade that sent Jonathan Bernier to the Maple Leafs. The Kings have a lot of forwards to round out a third or fourth line, so Frattin will need a strong training camp to make an impression in his new organization. He could put up a 35 to 40 point season because of his net drive and if given an ample opportunity, but we'll have to see how he adjusts to the more rugged Western Conference.

Frattin's star is rising. The undersized power winger should start the season on the Buds' third line and his ability to create havoc, protect the puck and fire rockets gives him second-line upside. We like him … a lot. And so do a lot of teams -- he's often asked for in trade talks. This year might not bring more than 30-35 points, but if Nikolai Kulemin continues to falter, Frattin could steal his job in the next couple years.

Frattin’s story is impressive. Kicked out of North Dakota and off his full-ride scholarship after his sophomore season for a DUI arrest and separate disorderly conduct charge, Frattin dug deep inside himself for six months to re-discover the kind of man he really was. He then returned to North Dakota on his own dime -- an expensive proposition for a Canadian at a U.S. college -- after a second-semester invite from his coach and promptly scored 11 goals in his final 13 games. Back on scholarship, his senior year produced 60 points, a Hobey Baker nomination as top NCAA player, WCHA player of the year, the WCHA Final Five tournament MVP and the College Hockey News player of the year. He has a pro shot and a pro release, and he plays a physical game with or without the puck. And it’s those things coupled with his obvious character and maturity that will earn him two or three dozen games in the NHL this season and make him the Leafs’ third-line power right winger in three years time.

Signed a two-year entry level contract in April 2011.