.

 

Or, it could be a blessing in disguise.

Let’s dive into a couple of assets that have shown face recently, both players mighty quiet throughout the season. Neither of the following players are going to save the season for the Kings, but their recent output (if you really call it that) spotlights where this club is really hurting.

Want that big-name, proven talent top-6 type of forward to make way to Los Angeles via another Dean Lombardi deal? That’s the attractive option, there’s another way to look at it.

Kyle Clifford and Trevor Lewis have both been showing more than just hard work and dependable presence as of late, they’ve been hitting the score sheet. With the boost in play the Kings’ 4th line has seen since Darryl Sutter‘s arrival, this needed to happen sooner than later.

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Kyle Clifford has 9 points this season, he’s recorded a point or greater in 7 games this year. The Kings are 6-1-0 in those contests. Trevor Lewis has 3 points this season, he’s recorded a point in 3 separate games. The Kings are 2-0-1 when Lewis chips in. That makes the Kings 8-1-1 when these two 4th-liners ink the score sheet. These moments haven’t been just a personal boost for Clifford and Lewis, but to the Kings and their biggest problem this year – scoring. In Clifford’s 7 games with a point, the Kings have totaled 24 goals, a 3.43 goals-per average. In Lewis’ 3 games with a point, the Kings have totaled 14 goals, a 4.67 goals-per average.

Those medians are a far cry from the club’s lowly average of 2.13 goals per game this season, which sits dead last in the NHL.

This really shows what production from a 3rd or 4th line can do to a club, it has an effect on the big-name role players, alleviates some pressure. The stats, even though I’m not a numbers guy, avidly agree.

I’m a bit thrown off when it comes to hunting down a big-name on the market come the trade-deadline. The Kings have the firepower, the frustration has been it’s extreme lack in output. What has made it even more frustrating? When that top-6 firepower doesn’t do the job, no one’s going to do it – as such with the Kings this year. If the Kings are to deal before February 27th, it should be a couple of under the radar moves to solidify the 3rd and 4th lines.

Really, it should take nothing for the Jonathan Bernier trade activists to get excited about, there’s no blockbuster solution this year. For the Kings and Dean Lombardi, it may be another move similar to two years ago, roping in Jeff Halpern and Fredrik Modin – but not quite that cheap. The trade may be as boring as watching this team, but it’s one that will suit the Kings much better in the long run.

To be honest, it wouldn’t be an invalid argument to claim the Kings are a fresh 3rd and/or 4th liner away from finally hitting a stride this year.

Deals aside, Kyle Clifford has been heckling defensive zones since Darryl Sutter‘s arrival, notching 20 shots in 17 games. Only 7 less than he had in his first 33 appearances.

Sh*t starts looking like a mental ward when it gets this good

Tuh-tuh-tuh…TODAY JUNIOR!

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No Streaking: You’d have to dig quite a ways through the season’s archive to locate the Kings’ longest winning streak – an extraordinary second week of the regular season. In this eight day span (November 15-22) the Kings reeled off four consecutive victories. In fact, the Kings have only managed to compile more than two consecutive victories just one other time this season, a three game win streak in the middle of November, two of which were against the Anaheim Ducks.

Now, it’s not to say that an NHL club must string together hoards of persistent winning streaks to compile an impressive campaign, but the ones that do often exemplify not only a postseason berth, but one that’s a serious threat to the other contenders. The Kings, in what may seem like a surprise to many, are a playoff club if the season ended today.

But, why a surprise? For the fan’s perspective, it’s been about being let down immediately after being drawn in, which has been the case all season long.

Excited the Kings scored more than two? Don’t watch the next game.

Excited the Kings recorded a Powerplay goal? Look away during man-advantage situations for the next week.

Not a tumultuous year, but one with little balance.

The only consistent matter you can really tie to this club has been goaltending, but neither Jonathan Quick (19-11-8) or Jonathan Bernier‘s (3-4-1) record really shows that. The Kings’ offensive woes have seriously undermined performances in the crease.

For the Kings this season, it’s now about making sure a playoff spot is situated in the Western Conference‘s top eight slots. If they do in fact reach this goal, they’re going to be an intriguing bunch come the NHL‘s postseason. They’re most likely looking at a deep positioning, which will see them once again in a road-ice situation.

This roster has had both media and fans in shambles all year long due to faulty production with the skill-set at hand. If the Kings can continue to stutter their way into a playoff berth, there’s optimism to be had. They’re due to break out at some point this season. Plenty of 6th, 7th, and 8th seeds have hit their stride in April in the past.

Then again, that’s why the NHL‘s postseason is such a beautiful thing.

 

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Out of State: For a club that plugged through possibly the most difficult travel schedule in recent NHL history to start the season, the Kings have been settled in ideal confines for some time now. In the previous six contests, the Kings have hosted five dates at Staples Center, marking the visitors category just once with a quick jump on the highway to see the cross-town Anaheim Ducks.

In that six-game span, the Kings posted a 4-2-0 record, accounting for 8 of 12 possible points. The lingering gray areas surrounding this team’s performance certainly make those results acceptable. The Kings losses came at the hands of the Vancouver Canucks and Detroit Red Wings; both slow, frustrating offensive performances. However, the Kings were able to take both matchups from the Anaheim Ducks, although handing a point Anaheim’s way allowing a late goal that extended the first contest to OT and a shootout.

Unique Uni’s: This will be a quick road trip, with back-to-back dates tonight against the St. Louis Blues and tomorrow night against the Dallas Stars. The Kings won’t be donning their regular visitors’ wardrobe, but a sweater that has only made one regular season appearance away from Staples Center in team history – November 2, 2009 at Jobing.com Arena against the Phoenix Coyotes. It’ll be the black and purple crown hemline shirts for both contests on this trip. The Kings are 1-1 in the purple hems this season.

Berning up

Bernier for One: As expected, and as predicted, Jonathan Quick got the nod for both contests against the Ducks and for Detroit’s visit. Previously looking ahead to Bernier’s next start, I tabbed tonight’s date in St. Louis to be the most plausible – and Terry Murray has notioned those same feelings, as Jonathan Bernier will be in net for the Kings tonight at the Scottrade Center.

It’s best to let Quick occupy the crease against a Pacific Division opponent in Dallas tomorrow. Bernier has just two starts in the Kings’ previous 13 games, and the performances have been nothing above average. Then again, it’s tough to perform well under such a spotty schedule. Quick, like the rest of the Kings roster, looked flubbish in Saturday’s 4-1 loss to Detroit, and was also riding his 5th consecutive start. Murray’s goaltending decisions regarding this two-game road set are completely validated.

Not OV-er yet

Not Russian the Process: Even though Dustin Penner and Alec Martinez are now eligible to return from the IR, neither will due to further recovery needs – and maybe, further analysis from Kings’ brass about the situation at-hand. Both Andrei Loktionov and Viatcheslav Voynov immediately injected a boost into this offense, and the roster’s overall tempo.

It was clear in the Anaheim double-take last week that the Kings were playing at a faster, crisper pace than seen so far this year. Don’t be short on admitting, Loktionov and Voynov were huge factors in the upbeat play. It’s not so much that they’ve provided production at a great level, but these two players open a lot more opportunity and space when on the ice. Loktionov has been an upgrade in every facet of a hockey player’s skill-set than Dustin Penner, and Viatcheslav Voynov has shown more poise and control than Martinez on the blue-line, also equaling Marty’s 16 game point-total in the three games he’s been back in the NHL.

Chances are, it’s going to be the same old song for Andrei Loktionov, reporting for AHL assignment upon Penner’s return to the lineup. As for Voynov, there’s no question his status upon Martinez’s return is a hot front office topic. There’s plausible options to consider in efforts to keep Voynov at the NHL level, which could involve waiving Davis Drewiske, keeping Alec Martinez as the 7th defenseman, or trading Martinez. There have been talks, but nothing worth getting into right now. By keeping Martinez and Penner out for this road trip, the Kings could be buying time for more than just injury recovery.

Where ya been?

Secondary Slump: The Kings’ 3rd and 4th lines haven’t been providing too much spark to offensive production, if any at all. Quite frankly, you’re going to have to back-track to the Kings’ 5-goal outpour against the Minnesota Wild to find any evidence, Colin Fraser‘s goal. I wouldn’t go as far to say they’ve been a detriment, but consistent scoring still should be coming from your back-end forwards.

Speaking of which, Brad Richardson and Trevor Lewis have absolutely disappeared, and it looks like they literally will tonight in St. Louis – both are healthy scratches. Both players have a single assist to their names, and have dressed in a heavy majority of games played this season. Richardson got high-praise for his 5-point series in the Western Conference Quarterfinals against the San Jose Sharks, I had difficulty buying into it – Richardson’s current output is showing why. As for Lewis, he’s seriously reliable on the defensive end, he tends to disappear when crossing the red-line.

This looks like a guy who’s got an itchy ear

This also looks like a guy who’s about to get canned.
1-7-3 in your last 11 ain’t gonna cut it, bubs – even with a new contract. That sucks.

 

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Matt Greene’s face doesn’t feel that laceration.

That laceration feels Matt Greene’s face.

Even-Keel: Just about everything for the Kings was on perfect terms when I last did the Inter-web thing. Jonathan Quick was inking record books, the Kings’ accounted for every point available during their first 3 games against Western Conference opponents, and most notably had yet to lose a game in regulation.

As common trend and perception would have it, such a start wouldn’t last forever – a few setbacks are expected, nothing out of the ordinary. But really, does this fanbase now have the ability to direct certain attention to smaller, finite details, things that may have been overlooked in the past due to the team’s struggling aroma? Those details are engrained in the club’s previous four games, the result of which was a 1-2-1 record with just three points earned.

The criticism motioned toward Terry Murray‘s goalie decisions is warranted to a certain degree, but not a valid issue to point blame. In order for Jamie Kompon to institute powerplay success, which went 3 for 15 in the last four contests, shots need to start hitting the net. Really, how much is Davis Drewiske worth to this defense? I think he’s worth waivers for Slava Voynov‘s cause. Scott Parse is scoring goals, but his 12 penalty minutes in 3 games are threatening to overshadow those contributions – Stop getting booked for interference and tripping. Anze Kopitar is awesome. This is looking to be the start of the downward slope to the end of an NHL hockey career for Dustin Penner.

That other guy: I’m in the minority here, but I both liked and respected Terry Murray‘s decision to start Jonathan Bernier Tuesday night. What was the big goaltending issue just a couple seasons back? Trust. Murray didn’t trust Erik Ersberg, so Murray worked Quick like a tax-return agent gets worked in April. You can’t have trust issues with a goaltender like Bernier, and Murray showed where his head was. Bernier hadn’t played since October 8th, his only start in the Kings’ first six games.

And yes, I realize Ersberg is no Bernier, but Murray can’t rest on the back of one guy again. Whether you want Bernier played as trade bait, or played for the right reasons, it doesn’t matter. Mix occasional and consistent together, he deserves that. In fact, I’d like to see Bernier get one of these next three dates. Spotty, but consistent appearances for Bernier will play into Jonathan Quick‘s favor down the road.

Here’s the goal that effectively ruined Erik Ersberg‘s ’09-’10 season, and ultimately his NHL career. That was the only shot the New York Rangers took in that fateful 3rd period, and that also may be the most disgusting shot Marian Gaborik has ever released.

Stick around for a while.

Accommodations: Drew Doughty is on everyone’s radar with every stride, which makes it easier to pick apart his unsettled play thus far. It also makes it harder to accept Slava Voynov‘s AHL demotion. Doughty’s got a lot on his shoulders right now, and that weight will probably sit for the majority of the season. He’s working to overcome a late arrival, a minor injury, and appearances that haven’t exactly matched the status his name holds. However, unfair to take jabs this early.

It’ll be a bit of time for Drew Doughty to get in full-sync with the team, and himself. That’s where it hurts to not have Voynov in the mix. With Voynov’s AHL assignment, you’re putting – from what I’ve seen, a back-end responsible, offensively aware young defenseman who many believe is NHL-ready in no man’s land in regards to the status of his progress. Voynov’s development and exposure is ready for a lengthy NHL gig, his future with the Kings puts Davis Drewiske‘s to shame.

That’s where legalities come into play; for the Kings to option Davis Drewiske and keep Slava Voynov, Drewiske would have to clear waivers. Oh no, don’t take Drewiske. Another name that has popped up is Alec Martinez, but I wouldn’t even consider it. Martinez would also have to clear the waiver wire, and he is far too valuable to even give it serious thought. Drewiske has been hanging around too long, I guess the underlying issue here must be the emergency back-up role if one or two blue-line men hit the IR for a lengthy period of time. Davis Drewiske or Thomas Hickey? Pick your poison.

Thursday calls for an old friend.

Still Going: The numbers show, Ryan Smyth didn’t go back to Edmonton to die. In the Oilers’ 11 games, Smyth has racked up a hefty 5 goals and 5 assists. Smyth isn’t hinging his output strictly on crease presence either, he’s released a whopping 30 shots in those 11 games, averaging 2.7 per game. I don’t see that ratio holding up throughout the season, but that’s more shots within a short time-frame I can ever remember Smyth taking in Los Angeles.

Smyth’s reception on Thursday night at Staples Center should be an interesting one. There won’t be a grand applause, nor will there be a sea of boos. Although Smyth’s name triggered drama within the Kings’ organization that lingered throughout the summer, I’ve gotten over it – I think most have. At the end of the day, you’ve got to realize both Ryan Smyth and the Kings are better off apart. Get there early for warm-ups to see the best hair the NHL has to offer.

Thursday calls for an old dress.

Return of the Hem-Lines: The Kings will be donning the newly-tabbed third jerseys against the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday. This template is slated to be worn six times at Staples Center throughout the season, with the vintage purple and golds making three appearances for heritage night celebrations.

There’s an eye opener regarding the Kings’ alternate jersey schedule, something you rarely see happen. The crown hem-lines (above) will make a couple of cameos on the road this season, planned to be the wardrobe for back-to-back contests November 22 @ St. Louis Blues and November 23 @ Dallas Stars. The Kings have only worn these templates once on the road before, back-tracking to November 2nd, 2009 during a date with the Phoenix Coyotes at Jobing.com Arena. That unique uniform instance was never presented as an official plan, nor explained after the matter.

In rare form.

Check for moths, you’ve got some threads for Thursday night.

Tune into KingsCast’s Episode 127 HERE
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The Los Angeles Kings are almost at the top of the Pacific Division. With Drew Doughty out of the lineup, a new defenseman has emerged in Slava Voynov. In this episode we talk about the games against the Devils and Stars, celebrate winning with a special segment and re-visit an old segment entitled “How’s That One Guy Doin’?”. Question of the Day: Should the Kings Trade Bernier?

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Solid Seven: There’s little to complain about when looking back at the Kings’ first seven regular season contests, a seven-game start that has claimed a 5-1-1 record sitting on a wealthy 11 points. In fact, if you could dive into a negative aspect regarding the Kings’ start, you’re referring to a non-issue at this point. There are no glaring heroes carrying the club, everything is seeming to click in all aspects of the Kings’ game, and their roster.

Not only are the top players feeding off of new acquisitions, but the depth needed to maintain those top roles are shaping the strength of this team. The Kings have an offense averaging 2.4 goals per game, a stalwart blue-line allowing just 1.3 goals per game, all in front of Jonathan Quick. This wall is sporting a 5-0-1 record with three shutouts and a disgusting .973 save percentage, simply the backbone to the threatening core the Kings have developed.

Pipes

Shattering the Books: In result of another absolutely stellar performance Saturday night, Jonathan Quick became the first goalie in Kings history to record three consecutive shutouts. This is elite status, folks. Quick hasn’t allowed a goal in the last 188 minutes and 10 seconds of live-play. That sets another Kings record, Rogie Vachon now down to second on the list, his former streak of 185 minutes and 55 seconds set during the 1975-1976 campaign topped.

Quick’s playing a sound game, his positioning cuts angles like corporate cuts jobs. He’s rarely out of position, and when he purposely does so to play the puck, it’s a little easier on the nerves than in the recent past. Regardless of the streak Quick’s riding, Jonathan Bernier will get the start tomorrow night against the New Jersey Devils. I like this move from Terry Murray, an Eastern Conference opponent, much-needed action for Bernier, and early rest for Quick.

Blue-line

Deserves a Look: Don’t ignore the defensemen who have subdued primary scoring opportunities, shooting lanes, and the opposition’s use (or lack there-of) of the offensive zone slot. They’re keeping everything along the boards and to the outside, this develops angles that are friendly to Quick’s positioning while reducing traffic.

Jack Johnson has been the highlight star among the group, netting three game-winning goals with two coming in OT. Johnson seems to be more open with his shot this season, directing a puck toward the front of the net whenever the opportunity arises. Also, he’s developed what may be a continuing role/position on the powerplay, where his usual threat atop the zone with his shot is uniquely positioned low in the zone for secondary looks.

The absence of Drew Doughty, who is set to return either Thursday in Dallas or Saturday in Phoenix hasn’t really been an issue, Slava Voynov‘s impressive debut at the NHL level has filled the role rather nicely. However, chances are Voynov will return to the Manchester Monarchs upon Doughty’s return. Since Davis Drewiske would have to clear waivers in order to be assigned, Voynov will most likely be paying another visit to central New Hampshire and the AHL.

Red-light

Electric Bill: Consider the importance this organization stressed about having a dependable “Top Six” in the offensive department during the past couple of off-seasons. Now, look at the players headlining the Kings’ statistical output. Albeit Dustin Penner with his lone assist and trudgy stride, Anze Kopitar (10), Simon Gagne (7), Justin Williams (7), Mike Richards (6), and Dustin Brown (4) are leading the Kings’ roster in the scoring department.

Someone give Jamie Kompon a get-free card for the next couple of weeks, the Kings’ powerplay ranks 6th in the NHL with a success-rate at %25. Now, if Kompon was still pulling ugly results, this would be a different story. With Richards and Gagne, the options should be near countless when drawing up a system. A successful powerplay shouldn’t be a common acclaim for this club, it should be expected. This is good for now, but struggles similar to those seen the previous two seasons on the man-advantage shouldn’t be tolerated.

“Ahh.. so this must be what it’s like to play at Jobing.com Arena. *Sigh…”

“Hey sweet cheeks… I can last longer than Halak”
(50 Bucks says that’s at an Applebees or something. Maybe a Chili’s)

My friend spotted Jonathan Quick hanging out in public the other day, and he was able to snap a sweet candid pic!! Look at that smile.

“Eww I just touched Brodeur! He’s so old!! And mediocre!! And hurt!!”

It’ll be ‘The Moose’ for the Devils tomorrow night.

The Brodeur Cure: Quite ironic, actually. I’m well aware of Johan Hedberg‘s background, and know that his nickname derives from his 16-game stint with the International Hockey League‘s (IHL) Manitoba Moose in 1998. Well, not his 16 appearances exactly, but the “lucky” helmet he wore while tending for Manitoba and thereafter in his transition into the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Manitoba Moose, an organization that successfully tenured 15 seasons in the difficult market that is minor league hockey (IHL, AHL) were forced to relocate to St. John’s, Newfoundland when the Winnipeg Jets confirmed relocation from Atlanta. The majority of Hedberg’s NHL career took place with the Atlanta Thrashers, housing the crease for the now defunct NHL club in 136 games from 2006-2010.

Tune into KingsCast’s Episode 126 HERE
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We’re less than 24 hours away, folks. The opening contest of the Western Conference Quarterfinals series between the Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks is slated for 7:00 PM PST tomorrow night at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, California. The two Pacific Division clubs will meet in the postseason for the first time in NHL history, the same year in which all California-based teams have qualified for the playoffs. Below, I’ll break down the series outlook, take a look back at their six meetings this season, note on key factors for the Kings, updates with analysis, and a prediction. Hey, and way to go NBC, no shock there. I bet it’s because Pierre Mcguire‘s forehead can’t fit into an airplane, that could explain the unbalanced regional telecasts.

These guys sure look ready, ARE YOU?!?

Maybe something a bit stronger, Anze.

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Season Series

Taking a look back on the six games played between the Sharks and Kings, you’ve got your share of lopsided scores, but the season series played out evenly with both teams going 3-3-0. San Jose outscored the Kings 18-13 in regulation, but the Kings were able to snag wins in both contests that extended to extra shots. Both teams have recorded shutouts in the meetings, Jonathan Quick on December 27 and Antti Niemi on January 1. The final meeting of the season was one you’d like to forget, the Kings got dropped like 5th period algebra in a 6-1 nightmare. However, that has failed to really have any significant lingering after-effect. An off-night for Jonathan Quick – he’s human, and a complete collapse by the defense. And of course, out Anze Kopitar and Justin Williams. Both aspects have recovered in decent form, and Williams looks to be making a postseason return. That’s a good thing, even if at 80%. As for venues, both the Kings and Sharks went 2-1-0 on home-ice, and 1-2-0 on the road.

November 15:   Los Angeles     3 @   San Jose   6
December 27:   Los Angeles   4 @    San Jose    0
January 1:         Los Angeles     0 vs    San Jose  1
January 26:       Los Angeles   3 vs    San Jose   2   SO
March 24:         Los Angeles   4 vs    San Jose   3   SO
April 2:             Los Angeles     1  @    San Jose  6

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Keys to the Series:

Not talking car keys, but some solid f*cking defense.

*FUN FACT: Davis Drewiske ALSO ties Matt Greene’s skates.

*** Maintaining Quick: Goaltending is going to be an enormous factor for the Kings, much like the defense. Jonathan Quick is coming off of six consecutive starts, going 2-4-0 during the season-ending string. He’ll need to be solid, the Sharks have the clear advantage on the offensive side. Jonathan Bernier‘s previous start resulted in a shutout performance in Edmonton on March 29. Bernier logged 34 minutes of ice in relief of Quick on April 4, but you can hardly leverage anything on that. Bernier hasn’t shown signs of rust after lengthy periods on the bench, and he’ll have to do the same this time around.

*** Conservative Defense: This is how the Kings, coupled with goaltending, are going to win in the playoffs. It’s the best thing going for them right now, and it has been throughout the season; granted a few breakdowns. As long as the Kings’ zone is clogged and Jonathan Quick and Jonathan Bernier are protected from odd-man rushes and open scoring opportunities, we can maintain the Sharks. Sticking to a consistent defensive scheme is crucial, its not their responsibility to make up for lost assets on offense. After Anze Kopitar and Justin Williams went down with injuries, too often did the defense get caught deep in the opponent’s zone. If the Kings’ defense can create turnovers and instability for the Sharks’ offense, that feeds to offensive opportunity for our forwards. Which brings me to…

*** Executing on Mistakes: And this is huge. We’re not going to see many comprehensive end-to-end offensive pursuits with the roster we’re icing. The forwards must work with our defense. This means being in position to transition on loose pucks, turnovers, and tight coverage. They’re going to have to fill support roles, and be able to hound on any small opportunity available.

*** Forecheck: Another major factor in the Kings’ offense creating opportunities. Grungy goals, plain and simple. Eliminating cluster and troubles in the neutral zone must be avoided with getting the puck deep, and hounding. You’ve got to work San Jose’s roster for everything they’re worth. Continue to dump the puck, and disrupt on the forecheck. Here, you’re keeping the defense in safe position, while implementing constant penetration against San Jose’s defense.

*** Special Teams: If the Kings can solve their powerplay woes, it could be the deciding factor in the series. This has hampered the offense throughout the season, and the Kings didn’t end the regular season on good terms with the man-advantage. A powerplay is an opportunity, and opportunities are going to be the storyline for this offense. Any chance they get, they must take advantage. Traffic, shots, smooth entrance into the zone, it’s vital. As for the penalty-kill, you can’t head into tomorrow night feeling nervous about it’s stability. Defensive zone coverage a man-down has been a consistently solid aspect throughout the season. If you think we can afford powerplay goals to San Jose, you’ve got another thing coming.

He’s Back!

It’s official, Justin Williams will be in the lineup tomorrow night in the series opener. Williams has been skating with the Kings for the past few days, even participating in contact drills. He was cleared by the medical staff, and gave Terry Murray the “good to go” after today’s practice. Huge, even if he’s not at 100%. Williams accounted for 57 points with 22 goals and 35 assists until missing the final nine games of the regular season after suffering a separated left shoulder. His recovery was a lot faster than initially perceived, his presence is huge. It has yet to be determined what line Williams will group with tomorrow night, but you’ve got to be grateful for the simple fact that he’s back in the lineup. Just-in time? Nope, it’s Justin Time!

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Prediction

San Jose Sharks in 6 games.

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Series Schedule

Game 1: Thursday, April 14, 7:00 PM PST – HP Pavilion

Game 2: Saturday, April 16, 7:00 PM PST – HP Pavilion

Game 3: Tuesday, April 19, 7:30 PM PST – Staples Center

Game 4: Thursday, April 21, 7:30 PM PST – Staples Center

Game 5: Saturday, April 23, 7:30 PM PST – HP Pavilion

Game 6: Monday, April 25, Time TBD – Staples Center

Game 7: Wednesday, April 27, Time TBD – HP Pavilion

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Don’t Forget!

Make Sure to head over to KingsCast on Facebook for your chance to win a Bernie Nicholls autographed stick blade! Just hit us up with your prediction for the series, and the winners are entered into a raffle for the prize!

 

No ‘subtitle’ option for hockey games, yet people can do everything but put food in their mouth with their cell phones these days. If I heard one more heavy-treble alternative rock song in the background of tonight’s broadcast, or during commercial-cuts which were just as guilty as Honda Center, I probably wouldn’t have done anything. But it was really annoying, and added to the lengthy ‘con’ list of everything having to do with Orange County. The music selection coincided with the night’s results, the Kings falling by a score of 2-1 to the Anaheim Ducks, who clinched a playoff berth with the victory. That’ll upset the gut.

And to top it off, these two trolls ran their mouths all night since Bob and Jim took the night off.
Take the ‘hlers’ out of ‘Ahlers’, and replace it with ‘sshole’. Then, take the ‘ayward’ out of ‘Hayward’ and replace it with ‘orrible announcer’.
There, that’s good.

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Western Conference Standings, At 81 Games

TEAM                     GP     W     L      OT     PTS
4. Nashville              81   44    26     11       99
5. Phoenix               81    43    25     13       99
6. LOS ANGELES     81   46    29     6        98
7. Anaheim              81    46    30     5         97
8. Chicago               81    44    28     9         97
9. Dallas                  81    42    28     11       95

81 Deep: The NHL‘s final weekend couldn’t look any better, each club approaches their 82nd regular season contest with an array of positioning possibilities. The top seven spots have been clinched in the Western Conference, with two teams still in pursuit of the 8th and final spot. The Chicago Blackhawks have control over their own destiny, they clinch with just one point attained in their final game against the Detroit Red Wings. The Dallas Stars need a regulation victory against the Minnesota Wild, and a regulation loss for Chicago in order to qualify. If that happens, it will be the first time in NHL history that an entire division qualifies for the postseason. For the Kings, they can finish anywhere from 4th to 8th in the Western Conference. It all hinges on one game, it’s either home-ice advantage or a seriously scary first round opponent.

Terry’s Quick

I’m going to bring up an issue that doesn’t deserve acknowledgment right now, due to Jonathan Quick‘s uncanny performance tonight. The guy stood on his head, but Jonathan Bernier should have gotten Terry Murray‘s call. I’m heavy on the mental aspect of the goaltender game, and Murray slipped again. Look, Jonathan Quick got the opportunity to redeem himself after the debacle in San Jose, why not utilize tonight as an opportunity to express both trust and respect to your backup? Tonight wasn’t a ‘must-win’, but a huge-win game. Seemed sensible to me, now you’ve got Quick going five straight starts heading into the postseason, assuming he gets the call tomorrow night. Bernier’s seen just 34 minutes of ice since his shutout performance in Edmonton on March 29th. It’s tough to argue the issue when Jonathan Quick stands on his head, at least the goalie situation is a lot healthier than this point last season.

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It’s Kings – Ducks for the regular season finale tomorrow night in Los Angeles. Both teams have clinched playoff spots, the game simply determines positioning in the Western Conference‘s playoff picture. Tomorrow night will also be the final night in which the black “Los Angeles” hem-line uniforms will be worn this season. The Kings have again opted to don the alternate uniforms at Staples Center for the playoffs. Not only is it the final time they’ll be worn this season, but the final time as a ‘primary’ uniform. They’ll be the alternates next season, with 10-15 appearances. Tonight was the final showing of the white ‘Los Angeles’ hem-line uniforms in regular season action. This design will be scrapped permanently at the end of the campaign, but will grace the team on the road throughout the postseason.

Say the pressure’s off the shoulders, take pride in labeling them an underdog, and have more faith than a chapel on a Sunday morning, but you can’t ignore the fact that this isn’t the roster we planned on leading us into the postseason. With just three games remaining on the Kings’ regular season slate, things look alright – but don’t necessarily feel that way. We’ll be looking for another taste of Midwest magic tonight. If the Columbus Blue Jackets win, the Kings are in. However, it’s always better to control your own destiny. It would take a complete collapse for the Kings to not etch their name into the NHL‘s playoff tree for the second consecutive season. The Kings would have to lose all three remaining contests, with the Dallas Stars winning their final four. After last night’s 6-1 drubbing by way of the San Jose Sharks, the final three games must instill rejuvenation. Below, I’ll break down the five key components that must attract focus for this club’s survival.

The Remaining Three, They’re Key: This is a seriously vulnerable team without Anze Kopitar and Justin Williams in the lineup. In their first opportunity to clinch a playoff spot last night, the Kings dropped a dud. The 6-1 San Jose slugging exposed the Kings’ defense and goaltending in the harshest manner we’ve seen since February. With three games remaining, the Kings need two victories; Not for playoff positioning, but for confidence and momentum. This team needs something positive to feed off of entering the postseason terribly shorthanded. A date with the Phoenix Coyotes, and two with the Anaheim Ducks. Both playoff teams, and both possible first-round opponents. The Kings most certainly have to pocket some points before the postseason arrives. Don’t let last night’s monstrosity be the kicker, it is crucial to segway into the Western Conference Quarterfinals on a positive note – especially with the injuries that have bruised the roster.

Goalie Carousel – Keep It Moving: Miserable performances from Jonathan Quick AND Jonathan Bernier last night. There’s one way for Terry Murray to react to the collapse last night, and that’s with consistency. You’ve gotta go Quick-Bernier-Quick for the remaining three games. With this, you provide our starter with an immediate chance to abolish last night’s disaster. Just as important, Jonathan Bernier gets another start before the postseason. Two opportunities for Quick to regain composure, and continuity for Bernier. You’ve got to establish clean trust in both goaltenders with the playoffs so close, while providing opportunity for both to enter the postseason on good terms.

Conservative-ism: With our top two goal scorers out of the lineup, the Kings must stick to conservative play. Our defense, Drew Doughty especially, has been caught deep in the offensive zone making extra efforts to create scoring chances. The aggressive mindset isn’t terrible to see, but the opposing odd-man rushes that have ensued from the defense pinching is a problem this roster can’t afford. This was spotlighted in Thursday’s loss to the Vancouver Canucks, which materialized two of their tallies. Last night posed the same issue, it’s crucial that the same approach is taken in the defensive zone as it would be if our offense was healthy. Unfortunately, the defense and goaltending is going to determine the outcomes of games for the remainder of the year. The first priority must be establishing solid presence in our own zone. Scoring will have to hinge on turnovers, neutral zone transition, and puck control in the offensive zone.

Act Your Age, Ryan: I’m appalled at how drastically, and how quickly Ryan Smyth‘s production has curtailed. Smyth has 11 points in the previous 29 games, split with just 2 goals and 9 assists. His numbers, if you want to call them that, may not even be the worst part. His overall presence on the ice has taken a serious downfall. He looks sluggish, he’s been slow on the forecheck, he isn’t establishing any presence in front of the net, and just looks downright exhausted. Smyth turned away a lot of off-season criticism with a strong first-half, and suddenly the critics may have a point. He doesn’t look 34, he looks 40. You talk about veterans who need to step-up to subdue the losses of Kopitar and Williams, and Smyth is on that list. Dustin Brown and Michal Handzus have answered the call, where are you Ryan?

Westgarth’s Gotta Go: I’ve shared my displeasure with Kevin Westgarth numerous times throughout the season. Now, I can do that with more confidence. Those who refuted a claim that Westgarth shouldn’t be getting ice vouched for his “protection” of the team’s superstars. Well, no more Anze to tend to, get Westgarth off the ice. Not to mention, players whose abilities don’t go farther than playing the ‘enforcer’ role are not valued like they once were. More clubs are icing two-way tough guys, players who can contribute in some other fashion than throwing fists. We’ve got that player in Kyle Clifford. Shouldn’t we be worrying about dressing offensive outlets rather than ‘enforcer’ types, anyway? For the love of god, you’ve got Peter Harrold wasting away on the bench. Yes, wasting. A swingman who can play both sides of the ice, and has a bit of an offensive touch in his repertoire. Does anything else need to be said, Terry? Sheesh.
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*PHOTO CREDITS:
Jack Johnson, Los Angeles Kings, Home Primary: Michael Zampelli
Jonathan Quick, Los Angeles Kings, Home Primary: Associated Press
Ryan Smyth, Los Angeles Kings, Home Primary: Michael Zampelli

If recent games have portrayed anything other than the Kings’ dismal power-play, it’s got to be the rise in importance goaltending looks to be for a postseason berth. But really, when is it not? In analyzing the reoccurring inconsistencies that have plagued both the offense and the defense, you’ve got to turn your attention to the single-most important variable — goaltending. Take a look at the two victories in the Kings’ previous five games, the primary factors hit the eye immediately. A shutout performance from Jonathan Bernier notched two points Thursday against the Phoenix Coyotes. And tonight, Jonathan Quick had a dandy against the Detroit Red Wings stopping 28 of 29 shots. With just 15 regular season games remaining, they’re undoubtedly going to be prominent factors in the Kings’ playoff pursuit.

You may hope the issues are resolved, but you can’t depend on this power-play for ample support. A man-up, the Kings are a horrific 1 for 13 in their previous three games, and at times resembling confusion that makes you uncomfortable just observing the disaster. The offense in it’s entirety has been streaky throughout the year, it hasn’t justified itself as being the determining factor for these final 15 games. You can certainly argue that the defense has recovered from early-season woes to become a consistent asset, which attains to Jonathan Quick and Jonathan Bernier signifying vitality.

There’s a clear-cut difference in the goalie situation this year than it’s status last season. That difference? Having two dependable names in the crease. After expressing his discontent to start Erik Ersberg early last season, Terry Murray used and abused Jonathan Quick to the extremity of exhaustion. This affected Quick’s play after the 2010 Winter Olympics, which carried into the postseason. Quick appeared in 72 games during the ’09-’10 regular season, and has gotten Murray’s call only 48 times this year. We’ve got two good things happening here: Jonathan Quick is getting consistent rest, and his back-up is one you can trust. Even better, the goaltending turntable has yet to show any negative mental effects from either Quick or Bernier. And if you look closely at Terry Murray‘s goalie decisions this year, they’re spot-on. He’s been able to decipher between the positive and negative effects of his goalie selections, which was not the case last season. Looking at the Western Conference standings, you’ll notice that the extra point for grabs in overtime and/or shootout games becomes quite crucial. Here, both Quick and Bernier have a huge effect. The pursuit of a second consecutive playoff berth hinges on every single point available, in every single game. Having two trustworthy goaltenders supporting a tumultuous roster helps the cause.

*Photo Credits:
Jonathan Quick, Los Angeles Kings, Away Primary: Getty Images/Ronald Martinez
Jonathan Bernier, Los Angeles Kings, Home Primary: Michael Zampelli