Will Smith opened up about Shohei Ohtani’s presence in Dodgers roster (Source: Getty Images)

The LA Kings hosted its annual Dodgers night at the Crypto.com Arena during a game against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Catcher Will Smith was present for the event, representing the World Series champions.

All fans present received commemorative socks. Special ticket holders also received customized Dodgers/Kings joint bobbleheads that featured Trevor Moore. The Kings forward has been a fan of both teams since his childhood and a native of Thousand Oaks.

Smith followed Mookie Betts, who was present for the annual Dodgers night the previous year. He was present for the ceremonial puck drop. Other players also to have featured at the Kings’ celebratory night include Tony Gonsolin, Kike Hernandez, Bill Russell, and more.

During the first intermission, Smith appeared on Fan Duel Sports Network’s mid-game show. He answered questions related to the team, its offseason, and how they were preparing for 2025. The highlight of his interview included praise for Shohei Ohtani. Smith opened up about his front-row seats to “The Sho” and how his two-way prowess will help them become a better team.

“We got to see what he (Ohtani) did this year. I got a front row seat to it, 50-50, and just incredible,” Smith said. “So see him do that, and him to go out there, and, [he’s] a Cy Young candidate every year. It’s incredible what he can do. We’re lucky to have him.”

Will Smith excited over Dodgers adding new players

The LA Dodgers have had a successful offseason so far. They have added former Cy Young winner Blake Snell, re-signed World Series winners Teoscar Hernandez and Blake Treinen, and recently added Korean infielder Hyeseong Kim. Will Smith felt the excitement of getting to play with them while also stating that the front office might be looking to get some more fresh faces.

“A lot of guys coming back, obviously signed some new guys, which we’re excited about,” Smith added. “I’m sure we’re trying to sign a few more. I know the front office plan is to make our team better every single year, and, you know, that’s what they work to do. But ultimately comes down to us go out there and play.”

The Dodgers are frontrunners in Roki Sasaki’s sweepstakes. The young Japanese flamethrower is expected to sign by Jan. 23 before his posting time expires. LA would also like to extend pitching veteran Clayton Kershaw.