The Los Angeles Kings are pleased with the progress Valentin Zykov has made over the last season. Zykov went from scoring 40 goals and 75 points in 67 games as a QMJHL rookie to 23 goals and 63 points in 53 contests in 2013-14. That might not seem like a step in the right direction, but Zykov has been improving defensively. He signed an entry-level contract with the Kings in May, but he's not expected to make their opening game roster in 2014.

The Los Angeles Kings have confirmed that they have signed prospect Valentin Zykov to an entry-level deal. Zykov will compete for a roster spot with the Los Angeles Kings during the 2014 preseason, but he's a long shot to actually make the team. The more likely scenario is that Zykov will spend another year in the QMJHL. He was great at that level in 2013-14, scoring 23 goals and 63 points in 53 games.

The Los Angeles Kings have reportedly signed Valentin Zykov to a three-year, entry-level contract. Zykov had 63 points and 70 penalty minutes in 53 QMJHL contests in 2013-14. He was selected with the 37th overall pick in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft.

The Los Angeles Kings have returned Valentin Zykov back to Baie-Comeau of the QMJHL. Zykov was taken in the second round of the 2013 NHL Draft but many thought the winger was a first round talent. The Kings were so impressed with the youngster that they dealt the 57th, 88th and 96th picks in the 2013 draft to move up to 37th to take the talented Russian who had 75 points in his first CHL season. Look for big things in the future for Zykov.

Valentin Zykov has earned a longer look at training camp, but he's still slated to return to the QMJHL this season. He wasn't among the first cuts made the Kings on Monday when they returned eight players to their junior teams. Zykov's line apparently played well in the team's preseason loss to Phoenix on Sunday.