Akil Thomas, drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the second round of the 2018 draft, made his NHL debut this week. The forward has seen limited ice time so far, but made a big impact in his time against the Sharks.
Thomas’s first NHL goal, and first career point, came at 11:13 in the first period. Thomas and PL Dubois came down the ice together, with Thomas using other players as a screen to find the back of the net. His goal also stands as the game-winner, a feat which he has accomplished nine times this season in the AHL, as well.
Thomas’s NHL debut comes after 154 career AHL games, where he has recorded 46 goals and 44 assists. He has dealt repeatedly with injuries over the past few years, but has had a strong 2023-24 season. Thomas is currently fourth on the Ontario Reign in overall points and second in goals.
Prior to his call-up, Thomas was named AHL Player of the Week for the week ending March 24. In that week, he recorded four goals and two assists. Three of those goals were game winners.