Angus Booth Scores First NHL Goal in Memorable Kings Debut

LOS ANGELES (Azat TV) – Promising young defenseman Angus Booth made a spectacular National Hockey League (NHL) debut for the Los Angeles Kings on Monday, March 2, 2026, scoring his first career NHL goal in a 4-2 loss to the Colorado Avalanche at Crypto.com Arena. The memorable moment, which saw Booth tie the game midway through the second period, signals a significant step in his professional progression and underscores his potential for a future impact with the Kings.

Booth, 21, was recalled from the AHL’s Ontario Reign by the LA Kings just prior to the game, marking his official entry into the top professional league. His immediate contribution on the scoreboard, redirecting a pinpoint pass from Brian Dumoulin, not only energized the Kings but also highlighted the effective development pipeline from their AHL affiliate.

Angus Booth’s NHL Debut and First Goal

The highly anticipated debut for Angus Booth came against a formidable opponent in the Colorado Avalanche. Despite the Kings ultimately falling short, Booth’s performance was a standout. Midway through the second period, with the Kings trailing 2-1, Booth drove to the net and skillfully redirected a pass, beating Avalanche goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood to tie the game at two goals apiece. This goal made him the 24th player in Kings history to score in their NHL debut and only the fourth Kings defenseman to achieve this feat, joining Sean Durzi, John English, and Jean Potvin.

Interim Head Coach D.J. Smith praised Booth’s poise and initiative, noting his surprise at seeing the young defenseman in such an offensive position. Smith remarked, “For those three kids to come in and play their first NHL game, you never know how you’re going to play or what have you. Then, to score, I said to him you have to shoot more pucks… he almost looked shocked that he was in alone there.” Smith also credited the Ontario Reign staff for preparing Booth and his fellow debutants, Jared Wright and Kenny Connors, stating, “The guys down in Ontario have done a good job. These three guys come up and they look like NHL players.”

From QMJHL to AHL: Booth’s Journey

Angus Booth’s journey to the NHL has been a steady climb through the junior and minor league ranks. Drafted by the Kings in the fourth round (116th overall) of the 2022 NHL Draft, Booth began his junior career in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). He played four seasons from 2020-24, accumulating 73 points (7 goals, 66 assists) in 198 career games. During his time in the QMJHL, he split time between the Shawinigan Cataractes and the Baie-Comeau Drakkar, helping Shawinigan secure the QMJHL Championship in the 2021-22 season and serving as team captain the following year.

Upon turning professional, Booth joined the Ontario Reign, the Kings’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate. In his rookie AHL season, he tallied 13 points (2 goals, 11 assists) in 50 games. This season, prior to his recall, Booth had already notched 10 points (1 goal, 9 assists) in 41 games for the Reign, demonstrating consistent offensive development alongside his defensive responsibilities. His progression in the AHL, particularly his ability to contribute offensively while maintaining a strong defensive presence, made him a prime candidate for an NHL call-up.

Prospects for Booth and the Kings

Booth’s impressive debut comes at a critical juncture for the LA Kings. As the team navigates the latter part of its season, integrating young talent like Booth is crucial for both immediate depth and long-term success. His ability to step directly into an NHL lineup and make an immediate impact, especially against a top-tier team like the Avalanche, speaks volumes about his readiness and potential.

The Kings organization has been keen on developing its prospects, and Booth’s performance aligns with their strategy of fostering talent through their AHL system. While his long-term role with the Kings will depend on sustained performance and continued development, his debut has certainly put him on the radar as a significant player to watch for the remainder of the 2025-26 season and beyond. His recall, alongside fellow 2022 draftees Jared Wright and Kenny Connors, signifies a potential youth movement for the Kings.

Angus Booth’s immediate impact in his NHL debut, particularly scoring a goal in a high-stakes game, suggests a rapid and effective transition from his AHL development, positioning him as a significant prospect for the LA Kings’ future defensive corps, especially given his prior leadership experience in junior hockey.