Tuesday, September 15, 2026

Recently attending the Los Angeles Kings’ rookie camp at Toyota Sports Performance Center in El Segundo provided an up-close look at the team’s prospects preparing for the upcoming season. Watching the young players compete and develop offered valuable insight into their future potential. Among the talented group on ice, one goaltender immediately distinguished himself: Carter George, whose performance left a strong impression.

Thunder Bay Native Uses Agility to Stand Out

The 6-foot-1 Canadian netminder demonstrated exceptional mobility around the crease, drawing comparisons to Jonathan Quick in his prime. The athleticism and quickness displayed in the mirror echoed the qualities that helped Quick anchor the Kings’ Stanley Cup championships in 2012 and 2014, making the resemblance particularly encouraging.

Calm Under Pressure

George exhibited notable poise under pressure during practice sessions. As shot after shot was directed his way, he remained composed and unfazed, quickly resetting his position after each attempt. That steady temperament is exactly what the Kings hope to see in a future starter.

Carter George Owen Sound Attack
Carter George, Owen Sound Attack (Natalie Shaver/OHL Images)

He refused to let either goals conceded or difficult saves disrupt his focus, maintaining readiness for the next play even as the pace increased. That consistency and comfort in net distinguished him throughout the camp experience.

Strong Positioning

George’s athleticism in the crease further separated him from his peers, as he moved efficiently from side to side and tracked the puck effectively even when plays developed away from him. His constant positional adjustments demonstrated advanced awareness for a young goaltender. Notably, George made OHL history on January 21, 2026, with the Soo Greyhounds by scoring his second career goalie goal, becoming the first goaltender in league history to accomplish the feat.

Excellent Awareness

The Thunder Bay native also showcased strong ice awareness during practice, tracking the puck and recognizing developing plays before shots arrived. His ability to follow the action without losing spatial orientation allowed him to position himself quickly and remain prepared, highlighting a skill set that should serve him well as he matures.

Overall, the rookie camp evaluation reinforced George’s potential as a compelling prospect. His combination of quick movement, sound positioning, and ice awareness, coupled with his composure under pressure, paints a promising picture for the Kings’ future. At 20 years old, he has significant room for growth, and watching him in person confirmed the excitement surrounding his development trajectory.

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