Kings radio color commentator / former left wing Daryl Evans – who since 2007 has also served as a power skating consultant for the Kings’ development team – breaks down some of the club’s best prospects for LAKings.com.

In this next installment of “Daryl’s Development,” Daryl – who goes on the ice with these prospects in the summer time / off-season – provides insight on Kings prospect Martin Jones.

Right Now
Martin is currently in his third year with the Manchester Monarchs of the American Hockey League (AHL). After two solid years in Manchester, Martin is poised to take the job as the Monarchs No. 1 goalie this year.

Back Story
Martin is a goaltender who was not drafted and was signed by the Kings as an unrestricted free agent on Oct. 2 2008. Martin at the time was playing with the Calgary Hitmen of the Western Hockey League (WHL).

What I Know About Him
Martin is a young goaltender with great upside. Watching him develop over the years Martin continues to improve in all the critical areas for a goaltender. Martin has been a first-team all-star in juniors as well as an all-star with the Monarchs in the 2010-11 season. With his work ethic and the path he’s on I would expect him to take on a leadership role in Manchester this year and clearly emerge as the Monarchs No. 1 guy between the pipes.

Why The Kings Tabbed Martin
Kings goalie coach Bill Ranford says “Martin has a great technical package and is a big guy.” Ranford also states, “Without being drafted there was a bit of a gamble, but the Kings were very aware of his play with the Calgary Hitmen in the WHL.” Ranford says “Martin’s development is on pace and he has a nice demeanor about his game.” Martin has excelled at all levels and the Kings would like to see that trend continue.

Going Forward
Martin has grown and matured a lot since signing with the Kings. He has a great presence in the net. He has strong athletic ability and potential. He is currently working on expanding his game by learning how to play outside the box and take an open minded approach with goaltending coach Bill Ranford.

To read the first installment of Daryl’s Development, which features Tyler Toffoli, click here

To read the second installment of Daryl’s Development, which features Kevin Gravel, click here

To read the third installment of Daryl’s Development, which features Andy Andreoff, click here

To read the fourth installment of Daryl’s Development, which features Jordan Weal, click here