Saturday night’s regular season finale could be a case of déjà vu, it could be a precursor.

Pick your outlook at-will.

Even after three consecutive NHL postseason appearances and a Stanley Cup championship to their name, the Kings, in that span, have yet to start a playoff series at Staples Center.

The Kings haven’t had the numbers to earn home-ice advantage in a playoff series in 21 years, not since their 1992 Smythe Division Semifinals series against the Edmonton Oilers, when the Kings still played at Inglewood’s Great Western Forum.

According to the Kings’ opponent coming to Staples Center Saturday, it’s déjà vu for you. The Kings also finished off last year’s regular season slate against the San Jose Sharks, albeit in Northern California at the HP Pavilion.

According to the Kings’ current positioning in the NHL‘s Western Conference standings, Saturday’s regular season date with the Sharks is a precursor to a possible first-round playoff matchup against San Jose in the Western Conference Quarterfinals.

Beside the San Jose Sharks, there are two other possible opponents the Kings could see come the start of the playoffs being the St. Louis Blues and Vancouver Canucks.

Of the Kings’ three possible first-round playoff opponents, they have seen each one of them at least once in the postseason the previous three years.

There’s nothing wrong with some familiarity come the playoffs. The Kings are 6-5 against the Vancouver Canucks (WCQF 2010, WCQF 2012), they’re 4-0 against the St. Louis Blues (WCSF 2012), and 2-4 against the San Jose Sharks (WCQF 2011).

Those results are far from shabby.

The same can’t be said for the Kings’ recent two-game swing in the Midwest.

Chin Check

Hunt for Home

If either the Kings or Sharks want any hope of snagging the the final ‘home-ice’ slot (4th) in the Western Conference standings, the St. Louis Blues must lose to the Chicago Blackhawks in regulation Saturday night at Scottrade Center.

If the Blues do in fact lose, the Kings matchup with the Sharks Saturday night has a simply, yet bold implication. They’ll be playing for home-ice advantage in the Western Conference Quarterfinals – flat out, no other fine print in the mix.

Home-ice advantage is something the Kings want, even after the outstanding 10-1 record they pulled off in opposing buildings last spring during the 2012 NHL Playoffs.

The Kings own the NHL‘s best record on home ice this season, playing ruthless hockey at Staples Center, posting an 18-4-1 record.

Kyle Clifford, who scored the lone goal in the Kings’ loss to the Detroit Red Wings Wednesday night at Joe Louis Arena, knows the grounds of a playoff matchup with the San Jose Sharks all too well.

San Jose, can you see

The #13 Lean

Going Fourth, California North

Office Talk

Ice Gawk

Defensive when it’s Offensive: The Kings have had dates with the San Jose Sharks on three previous occasions this season, tallying up a 1-1-1 record. Each club has won when playing on home ice.

The Kings put on an offensive clinic March 16 at Staples Center, whaling on the Sharks with goals aplenty in a 5-2 victory that saw 12 Kings players record at least one point.

In both contests against the Sharks at HP Pavilion this season, March 14 and April 16, the Kings lost both times; Once in regulation, and once in extended time, falling in a shootout decider in the most recent date against the Sharks on April 16.

Defenseman Matt Greene hasn’t played against the San Jose Sharks this season, missing all three dates while recovering from back surgery, from an injury he suffered on January 19 against the Chicago Blackhawks. Greene returned to the Kings’ lineup last Thursday, but in unpolished form.

Matt Greene won’t play against the San Jose Sharks on Saturday night either.

When you’re injured and out of the lineup for 42 consecutive contests, the return isn’t going to be glamorous – especially when the rest of the roster is preparing for the most high-tempo point of the season, that being the playoffs.

Right now is a very dangerous time to return to action after an injury as a hockey player. I don’t care what level. In fact, it doesn’t even matter the sport.

If you’re not in regular game form, then maintaining pace in a postseason rhythm becomes a huge threat to the recovery process.

What you’re balancing with Matt Greene is extreme. A proven, yet still fragile defensive staple for the playoffs, or letting the asset train fruitfully for the next six months.

Was Ellerby that bad?

No time for family

It’s the playoffs, fool.

R.S.V.P.

Light Corps: Both Anze Kopitar and Jonathan Quick will be in the lineup for Saturday’s contest against the San Jose Sharks, but the Kings remain without Captain Dustin Brown, who received a two-game suspension from the NHL for his hit on Jason Pominville Tuesday night in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Darryl Sutter is expected to pencil in Jonathan Quick to start the regular season finale in the crease for the Kings. Quick, when shaky this season, has been so when the San Jose Sharks are the opponent. He’s started twice against San Jose this season, and those performances haven’t been worthy of space in the memory books.

Quick started the Kings’ first game against the Sharks this season, but was pulled from his duties by Darryl Sutter midway through the contest after surrendering three goals on San Jose’s first 12 shots.

Jonathan Bernier would come in for relief of Quick on March 14th, and start against the San Jose Sharks on April 16th – earning the win while stopping 20 of 22 Sharks shots in a 5-2 win at Staples Center.

Sutter would return to Jonathan Quick in the Kings’ last contest against the Sharks, and he was impressive to say the least. Jonathan Quick stopped 33 of San Jose’s shots, but surrendered a shootout tally to Raffi Torres, granting San Jose the win.

Anze Kopitar, who after suffering a broken ankle in March of 2011, was missed dearly in April of 2011 during the Kings’ playoff series against the San Jose Sharks, which saw the Kings swallow elimination in six games, losing three of their four bouts with the Sharks in overtime.

If there’s a solid time for Anze Kopitar to make his offensive presence known again, that time would most certainly be Saturday night.

Kopitar hasn’t scored since March 25th in Chicago, a 15-game span.

The Kings are without Dustin Brown again for Saturday’s meeting. You’d like to see Kopitar shoulder some success for this roster heading into the playoffs.

Don’t call it a Hail Mary

Captain’s Out

Due two his two-game suspension, Dustin Brown will miss the Kings’ regular season finale Saturday night. The Kings’ Captain will be back in action when it counts most, though, when the playoffs start next week.

If there’s one thing you can be sure about, it’s Brown’s return.

The Kings’ postseason status is up in the air on all counts, with home-ice scheduling and a first-round opponent still with tagged with multiple possibilities.

The beauty though, is the postseason certainty this organization has built in spectacular fashion.

You don’t need to act like you’ve been there before when you’ve been there before.

Time for another run.

See you Saturday

Be prepared for a dandy.

Puck drops in Downtown Los Angeles at Staples Center against the San Jose Sharks Saturday night at 7:30PM PST.

Episode 188 KingsCast TV: The March to the Playoffs – HERE
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There’s times when you just see it shaping together. You just see it.

For the short-sighted, it’s best to forget tonight’s debacle in Dallas, Texas.

And for this article’s sake as well.

Drew Doughty‘s fifth season in a Kings uniform has been a respectably impressive, yet terribly underrated one. Most of the quiet criticism has centered on the 24 year-old’s low offensive output this year, which is, well, the way many faces came to know the youngblood.

If Doughty has built his NHL resume on one key or attention-grabbing tactic, it’s that of his knack to score at the position he plays, and in the casual, yet baffling way he does it. When it becomes a big enough threat to your game, the opposition is going to adapt. Either that, or you’re going to hit a bump in the road, a la a human being.

Statisticians have been busy with Drew Doughty‘s name the previous three regular season campaigns, where the Kings’ defenseman tallied 37 goals and 98 total assists. When you add serious dependability on the defensive end – which is his main job, well, you’ve got quite a player.

The buzz made sense.

Now you see him with four goals and 14 assists through 40 games this season. And those numbers mean as little as they are low – low, if we’re talking the expectations Drew Doughty’s built.

You may want to be reminded of Drew Doughty early last season after his lengthy contract dispute, which saw him sit out the Kings’ entire training camp and preseason schedule. There, you’re going to be fulfilled with highlights of a defenseman being out of his designated position at crucial times, due to an overdose of his offensive knack, ultimately hurting the team.

Probably not, though. Maybe you’re looking for an answer to right now.

Maybe it’s got something to do with Doughty maturing; taking on a more responsible, defensive approach. That doesn’t mean his future sees him as a stay-at-home defenseman. Please now.

Maybe it’s got something to do with the Kings having the best offensive scheme they’ve ever had in franchise history. Jarret Stoll isn’t our 3rd-leading scorer these days. The defense can play their game.

Maybe it’s got something to do with the Kings starting the season and playing it through so far without the two biggest stay-at-home defensively stalwart names on this roster: Willie Mitchell and Matt Greene.

Maybe the Kings are in 4th-place in the Western Conference with eight games left to play, with a comfortable gap in points, just about cuing a fourth-straight appearance to the NHL playoffs.

Maybe the Kings got throttled tonight by the Dallas Stars, falling by a horrid 5-1 score at the American Airlines Center via surrendering four-unanswered third period goals.

Maybe it’s just one game.

Maybe he’s just getting started

While one finishes

Cup and Out: It was basically already figured, but Willie Mitchell will be out for the remainder of the season, with no return to the Kings’ lineup expected, no matter how lengthy a postseason stretch could last.

I say it out of respect, and what I think many others – deep down, would like to see happen as well: Good career, Willie Mitchell. From a real life perspective, Mitchell should call it a done deal.

The guy can still play, and the Kings would love to have him back on the ice. His unfortunate health history is not worth the return. He’s suffered a myriad of concussions, and has been sidelined all season for a “different” injury.

To put it simply: Life itself, especially with a family involved, is not worth risking while playing the game of hockey. Especially so, when you’ve had an NHL career-run such as Willie Mitchell‘s.

Call it finishing on top.

And better yet, with plenty of life ahead.

Headway

Facetime, Replace time: Because really, the biggest concern regarding this roster at the beginning of the season was the defense. Major injuries to Matt Greene and Willie Mitchell at the beginning of the season seemed to weaken the Kings’ defensive corps terribly.

This is when depth and minor league development pays off. The Kings have the ninth-best Goals-Against-Average percentage in the NHL today, allowing a calculated 2.36 goals per game.

That, without the presence of the two biggest penalty-killers, shot-blockers, and lane cloggers on the Kings’ roster. For the Kings to find themselves where they are today without Willie Mitchell and Matt Greene playing regularly, is saying something extremely special.

It speaks to the second-year Vyacheslav Voynov, who plays like a 10-year veteran. It praises Jake Muzzin, who’s poise trumps that of all other Rookie defensemen in the NHL. It thanks Davis Drewiske for his last-minute time, and gives Robyn Regehr a chance to play alongside #8.

But you talk about a backbone

Colorado Down: The Kings are playing the NHL‘s lowest of lows Thursday night at Staples Center, slated to host the Colorado Avalanche. Colorado is in the midst of some dark days, holding the NHL‘s lowest point-total, with internal struggles tagging along for the ride.

Time to pounce.

On who other, than the team Drew Doughty netted his first-career NHL goal against.

Colorado Doughty

Puck drops at Staples Center against the Colorado Avalanche at 7:30PM PST Thursday.

Episode 186 KingsCast TV: Robyn Regehr in, Davis Drewiske out – HERE
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Activity in the Kings’ front office is in full-swing.

Friday’s move pulled by Dean Lombardi unclogs an overpopulation of players in the organization at the centerman position, and gives a much-needed solid body to this roster’s terribly beleaguered defense.

The Kings have acquired defenseman Keaton Ellerby from the Florida Panthers in exchange for a fifth-round draft selection in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. Ellerby, who stands at a height of 6’4″ and weighs in at 220 lbs, provides some much needed size and stay-at-home presence that was lost in the Kings’ defensive scheme earlier this season.

Injuries to Matt Greene (out indefinitely) and Willie Mitchell (cleared by doctors but still questionable on all accounts) have left some holes in the Kings’ back-end that are certainly hampering defensive strength. It boils down to the plays and contributions that may not stand out when being a spectator.

Both Greene and Mitchell were shot-block hounds, combining for 251 stunted opportunities off the sticks of opposing players last season. They were also both staples on the Kings’ penalty-killing unit. This team is missing big bodies in the defensive zone, those which can log grueling minutes and clog the defensive zone.

With Keaton Ellerby, the Kings have added a player that can help subdue the loss of the two injured big-bodies.

Andrew Campbell, who had been called-up from the AHL’s Manchester Monarchs, will remain with the Kings’ affiliate with Ellerby’s addition.

What may be most impressive is how Dean Lombardi materialized this trade. Lombardi pulled the first trigger Wednesday, dealing the disgruntled Andrei Loktionov to the New Jersey Devils for a 5th-round pick in this upcoming summer’s 2013 NHL Entry Draft.

Ellerby was then a healthy scratch in the Panthers’ contest against the Winnipeg Jets Thursday night. This hints that Dean Lombardi already had the trade in the works – if not internally finalized. Ellerby had played in all of Florida’s prior nine contests this season.

So, in turn, Lombardi flipped the fifth-round draft pick he received for Andrei Loktionov, and used it to acquire a player that fills a role that the Kings are suddenly, and sorely weak at.

Now that’s a work of art from a General Manager. Let’s see if this roster can benefit from the move.

Keaton for a beatin’

Keaton Ellerby is expected to join the roster today for practice in Detroit, Michigan in preparation for the Kings’ date with the Detroit Red Wings Sunday at Joe Louis Arena.

It’ll be a matinee affair in Hockeytown, so the puck will drop over eggs and coffee in Southern California, slating a 9:30AM start. We’ll have some pre-game notes here at KingsCast prior to tomorrow’s contest.

Episode 179 KingsCast TV: LA Kings are slumping – HERE
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The honeymoon’s over. Hola, hockey.

For the Kings, it’s a roster that has been hit with some unexpected misfortune in the health department. It’s also a roster that is being carried, as well as it can be, by the unexpected.

Scoring has come at an unsatisfactory rate through the first two contests of the campaign, with red-light inducers provided only by the three forwards that embody the Kings’ fourth-line, and two defensemen which rarely trigger reaction from scorekeepers.

Offensive output has been activated by Kyle Clifford (3pts), Jordan Nolan (2pts), Colin Fraser (1pt), Rob Scuderi (1pt), and of course Matt Greene (1pt), who will likely see his assist in the Kings’ opener be his final point of the season. Alec Martinez also has one point, but that’s not a shocker.

Those are the Kings’ leading scorers.

The depth ain’t done, however. Trevor Lewis, who has been rotating between third and fourth-line roles, leads the entire Kings roster in shots-on-goal through two games with eight.

It’s a bit ironic how three of the few powerful offensive bodies seen from the Kings’ roster through the first two games of the season spent some time during the NHL lockout playing in the ECHL. The skill-level between these two leagues is night and day.

Kind of like Tuesday’s performance compared to Saturday’s.

The effort, focus, and overall performance was much better at the Pepsi Center last night against the Colorado Avalanche. If you’re expecting perfection, or a miraculous carry-over from last spring, you’re in for an agonizing ride.

And it doesn’t have to be, because most of what is happening, said, or done today, will likely be irrelevant in about a week.

Sutter says

Lend an ear: It’s already renown that head coach Darryl Sutter was the most vital factor to the Kings’ success last season. The guy knows what’s going on, and he’s got a way of stubbornly expressing it to the media without openly disgracing them.

It’s open-fire. But he does it respectably. It’s like the reporters don’t know they asked a shit-stained question.

Don’t be offended by the truth, which Sutter spits. However, he regularly has a field-day with reporters with his simple, and extremely blunt responses. He brought up an extremely valid point following the Kings’ opening contest Saturday:

“Hopefully, our first and second lines give us some quality minutes instead of just playing them.” – Darryl Sutter via Frozen Royalty

You’ve got to love the subtle, yet oh so blatant messages that flow through Darryl Sutter‘s one-sentence responses.

Guess who showed up in Colorado? It wasn’t the aforementioned first and second lines, that’s for certain. All offensive assets showed improvement, but that was a given following Saturday’s debacle. Tough to get worse, eh?

It was Kyle Clifford and the utterly antagonizing fourth line that ran the show, completed by the likes of Colin Fraser and Jordan Nolan. This trio was used aplenty in Saturday’s opener, and was clearly the best offensive group in the lineup.

The fourth-line returned to the spotlight again Tuesday in Colorado with Kyle Clifford‘s first period goal off of a Jordan Nolan shot. This shot, purposely placed by Nolan himself, granted a friendly carom that would direct access to Clifford’s stick.

Fourth comes forth

Cliff-Hanger: Kyle Clifford practiced with the second line Wednesday, skating alongside Mike Richards and Jeff Carter. It’s yet to be confirmed whether or not Clifford steps into a top-six role for the Kings’ third game of the season Thursday night.

Back to Edmonton

In Edmonton: Willie Mitchell will not play.

Hopefully the Kings can put forth a performance resembling that of an oil-change.

You can always use one of those on the road.

My bad, Gretz.

Puck drops at Rexall Place in Alberta against the Edmonton Oilers Thursday 6:30 PM PST.

Episode 177: L.A Kings Raise the Banner – HERE
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Imagine all of this with a full 82-game schedule. You know what a hurdle is?

Now it’s a scramble. You have to recover quickly. You have to.

Tuesday’s contest with the Colorado Avalanche presents a string of sudden roster moves to the Kings’ lineup. As though recovering from Saturday’s lackluster loss wasn’t a challenge in itself, the Kings must now adapt to a tornado-like whirlwind of roster moves.

These changes have come in all facets. With some of the good, you better expect a bit of the bad.

The Good: You’ll see a #11 sweater Tuesday evening. Anze Kopitar will be in the lineup against the Colorado Avalanche, fully healed from the knee injury he suffered in Sweden playing with Mora IK.

The Neutral: We barely knew the guy — Anthony Stewart has been placed on waivers.

The Bad: He’s traveling with the Kings has they embark on a three-game road trip over the course of five days, which hints at an imminent return for Willie Mitchell, who injured himself training just after the NHL lockout ended.

The Ugly: This is about as bad as it gets. Kings’ defenseman Matt Greene suffered a herniated disc during Saturday’s contest against the Chicago Blackhawks. Initial reports claimed Greene was likely to miss the entire season, but most recent words hint at a three-month recovery process for the Kings’ stay-at-home defensive rock.

Bottom Line: Greene’s gone, and the only question is whether he can return late in the regular season, or playoffs, or.. next October.

Equally as missed as his shut-down defensive coverage will be, is his voice.

Word of Mouth

You think Jack Johnson would listen.

But, many also thought Johnson would be a top-tier elite NHL defenseman.

Blue-line Blues

Blindside: The Kings returned defensively in a very attractive way this season, seeing all six defensemen – Willie Mitchell, Matt Greene, Vyacheslav Voynov, Rob Scuderi, Drew Doughty, and Alec Martinez return to the roster. The Kings controlled many games in the latter part of last season, and all throughout the postseason, with their arrogant defensive scheme.

One of the last problems you could foresee hitting the Kings this season is one that applies to defense. With Willie Mitchell still on injured-reserve, and Matt Greene‘s entire season now threatened, the Kings must adapt immediately.

Unfortunately, for now at least, this means Davis Drewiske will remain in the lineup. He will skate alongside Alec Martinez in Colorado tonight. And it also means digging into the product on the farm with the AHL affiliate Manchester Monarchs for some assistance.

Manchester’s Muzzin: The Kings will call on Jake Muzzin, who was called-up from Manchester as soon as news broke of Matt Greene‘s injury. This will be Muzzin’s second NHL-stint, his second with the Kings. At the start of the 2010-2011 campaign, Muzzin played the first 11 games of the year in a Kings uniform.

He hasn’t seen any action with the big club since, until tonight. His performance, along that of Drewiske’s will not just once again determine the length of their time with the Kings, but if Dean Lombardi should trigger another trade to acquire a defensive body.

Only time will tell, and the way this season has been structured, “too late” can sneak up on you with the blink of an eye. For now, the Kings are going with what they’ve got within their system to fill the big holes exposed. And, they have the assets to make moves if tonight’s defensive tandem can’t hold their own.

Jake Muzzin will play alongside Vyacheslav Voynov tonight. The two are quite familiar with each other as teammates with the Manchester Monarchs.

The burning question – Who will Jarret Stoll ride to games with now?

Ambitions As A Rider

Strollsy and Co. are now hit with a dose of adversity to play through early, and it’s going to get late – fast.

But it’s nothing an Anze Kopitar goal can’t put a positive twist on. Welcome back.

Episode 177: L.A Kings Raise the Banner – HERE
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Put it on the board, ‘bebeh’.

If you’re going to start on a foot, do it on the right one. The slipper fits thus far.

And it’s a Kings victory, giving them a hand on the St. Louis Blues with a 1-0 series lead, while sniping home advantage from the second seed’s hands.

The Kings’ offense was provided by some unlikely names, with Vyacheslav Voynov opening LA scoring, and Matt Greene notching the game-winner on yet another Kings postseason shorthanded tally – their third in six games.

Dustin Penner deposited the victory, potting a bank-shot clearing attempt into St. Louis’ empty net with just 14.1 remaining.

Then there’s Jonathan Quick‘s stalwart stance in the crease, yet again. His play has been nothing short of unfathomable it’s been so stellar, peppered with a heavy barrage of shots to start the game – six within the first three minutes of play. The Blues would bury their eighth shot on Quick, but many teams – and goalies, would come out of that opening sequence down 3-0.

And then, this:

Initial this one. Two V’s = W

Dustin Penner will be momentarily remembered for his unique empty-net goal from last night’s victory. But, take another look at Vyacheslav Voynov‘s goal above. Penner’s pass might very well be the giver of the playoffs thus far. Phenomenal patience and placement, and that’s about as good as it gets.

Speaking of assists, soon after his goal, Voynov fed Jeff Carter one of the best set-ups you possibly can on a 2-2 rush. Carter needs to wake up, and fast. Botching that opportunity doesn’t mean ankle soreness, it means not being ready, your head isn’t there.

He made another sh*tty play later, but I can’t put my finger on it. Maybe because it was so sh*tty.

Look, ankle injury or not, this guy was acquired to produce, and even if he’s not putting up numbers, there’s got to be some sort of presence from Carter. There’s not, and if it doesn’t start to happen sometime soon, I’m taking the screenshot below into literal matters when talking about and maliciously and wrongfully judging Jeff Carter.

Is this a coincidence? Ehhh…

Meanhwile, Voynov’s dropping dimes somewhere

- Game 2 Outlook -

Absolutely no time or room to settle, something you’re learning not to expect from this Kings roster, which has maintained a seriously humble attitude during their playoff success so far. I guess this is the real growth we’ve been waiting for. What they can’t do, is let the Blues flip the switch like they did in the Western Conference Quarterfinals against the San Jose Sharks.

After losing Game 1 to the Sharks, the Blues pulled off four consecutive convincing victories to nail their series in five games. They did so by outscoring the Sharks 12-5 in the final four contests. The Blues are almost a guarantee in home confines, losing only their eighth game in regulation at the Scottrade Center to the Kings Saturday night. They’ve played 45 games in their building this season. A Game 2 victory will be a monumental feat for the Kings.

Like I mentioned in a previous post, the biggest offensive factor between these two clubs is who can score two goals in a game. That was the case Saturday, Matt Greene‘s #2 tally tabbed as the game-winner. Dustin Penner, just for insurance reasons.

Quick but it ain’t easy

I don’t have much to say, there aren’t too many words that can justifiably describe Jonathan Quick‘s play. However, the Kings have maintained uncanny defensive presence to help his cause. We’re not seeing defense from just the defensemen, however.

It’s called offensive defense, it’s about attacking both blue lines. See: Dwight King.

The Kings are putting pressure on he Blues before they can hit the neutral zone, much like their strategy against Vancouver. The Kings are allowing very few options for opposition to create any momentum coming out of their own zone. And if they do break a lane or two, it’s rushed, and the Kings are well-positioned because that usually means three Blues players are still looking to find a way to support the puck.

Special teams will continue to be a major factor, especially in such a tight match-up that is the Kings and Blues. Although the Kings went 0-5 on the man-advantage Saturday, they nipped a combined eight shots to couple with some pretty decent puck posession. They made their statement on the penalty kill, which is better than a powerplay goal for more reasons than you may think.

The Kings are staying aggressive when shorthanded, that’s ‘keying in’ in it’s truest form. And it may be an antonym to the aforementioned “agressive”, but the Kings are playing relaxed hockey in special teams situations. That’s absolute gold this time of year.

Pat Riley never had dry hair

LAK-STL GAME 1 RECAP in Episode 156 HERE
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.

They’re back in it, albeit barely.

It’s been a soul settling rebound from the horror shows seen in Columbus and Detroit last week with two crucial victories against the Chicago Blackhawks and the Detroit Red Wings. That’s led the Kings to their current 78-point total, where they stand tonight in the Western Conference‘s 11th seed.

The Kings’ 11th place marker makes the situation look a bit worse than it actually is, but it isn’t good. The 8th and final playoff berth is owned by the Colorado Avalanche, who stand at 81 points. There is a positive here, the Avalanche have played 73 games, the Kings just 70. That’s six possible points on the board for the Kings on Colorado, a huge boost to have this time in the season.

The two clubs that separate the Kings from playoff hopes also have 78 points to the name, and both are playing hockey as I scribe away at the typewriter. The San Jose Sharks and Calgary Flames are the Kings’ hurdle, but optimism points at the Kings chalking up to even with San Jose in games-played after tonight, and being one game in-hand on Calgary. San Jose had four games on the Kings just a couple of weeks back, that’s a battle won in itself.

*Update: Flames add two points in victory over Phoenix Coyotes, now at 80 points.

There’s still some face-time to be had with the Sharks and Flames, the Kings slated to see Calgary for one more game, and scheduled to see the Sharks a whopping three times in their final 12 contests.

Power hour

.

It’s without question Jeff Carter has had a major impact on the improvements in the Kings’ scoring, a team that has compiled 29 goals in the past nine games, the nine games in which Carter has been in LA. Carter has chipped in with seven points himself, notching give goals and two assists. He’s contributed quite nicely, and when he hasn’t been on the scoresheet, he’s been opening opportunity for others on the roster.

An eye-popping stat churned out by Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insider here: Since the Carter trade, the Kings have scored on six of their previous 21 powerplays, a shocking sight to see after the way Jamie Kompon‘s offensive special teams operations have worked this year.

Compare powerplay success in the past nine games (28.6%), with that of the entire season’s (16.5%). There’s got to be a factor somewhere.

Speaking of power, save some energy with Matt Greene, damnit.

Short sighted

.

Anze Kopitar has two shorthanded goals in the last four games. Nothing short of hell yes.

Wilson could probably sit for free

.

The Kings are 2-0 with Tom Hanks in the building, get him on the bus.

Brown delivers against the Ducks

It’s a date with the Anaheim Ducks Friday night, a team in which the Kings have fared quite well against offensively, with 14 goals in five games, and overall – notching a 4-1 record against the cross-town Pacific Division rival. And of course, it’s another must-win game, as they all shall be tabbed from here on out.

Tune into KingsCast’s Episode 147 HERE
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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.

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Once drafted, Voynov left Chelyabinsk Traktor of the Russian Elite League for the Kings’ minor league system. Voynov’s transition to the AHL was smooth to say the least, tallying 23 points in 61 games during the 2008-2009 season, and improved on those numbers during the 2009-2010 season with 29 points in 79 games. The defensive prospect is shattering his output from the previous two seasons, establishing himself as Manchester’s most valuable asset on the blue-line. If Viatcheslav Voynov makes the Kings’ roster out of training camp next season, which I expect, the Kings will have the convenience of icing three offensive defensemen. To say the defensive pairings would be attractive with Voynov’s addition would be an understatement. Dressing three offensive defensemen with Rob Scuderi, Matt Greene, and Willie Mitchell is intriguing. The factor becomes Alec Martinez, the most recent defensive promotion. Dumping Davis Drewiske and Peter Harrold may have to be the harsh answer to Voynov’s inclusion, starting off with Martinez and Voynov rotating the 6th and 7th blue-line spots. Expect Viatcheslav Voynov to remain with the Manchester Monarchs for the remainder of the season in pursuit of the AHL‘s Calder Cup. Expect the 21 year-old prospect to vouch for residence in Manhattan Beach in September.

First Goal: Jack Johnson unable to handle the puck in defensive zone transition, Scottie Upshall feeds Shane Doan.
Second Goal: Not to take anything away from Keith Yandle, but four Kings’ stared at his back-door feed to Shane Doan. Goals don’t come that way in this league with four defensemen in the slot. They shouldn’t.
Third Goal: Scottie Upshall buries his own rebound from the top of the circle with four Kings’ on the backcheck. Here, you can argue Jonathan Quick allowed a bad-angle goal, but Upshall has no business recovering that puck.
Fourth Goal: Powerplay for Phoenix, but no excuses for this mishap. Scottie Upshall feeds Brett Maclean through Matt Greene, Rob Scuderi, and Michal Handzus.
Fifth Goal: Clear shot from the top, not going to let Quick off the hook on this one.
Sixth Goal: Bad neutral zone turnover, I’ll pin the blame on this even though Kyle Turris‘ shot should’ve been handled.

Expect Jonathan Bernier to extend his time in net tomorrow night. He’s yet to start consecutive games this season, and now he’s got the opportunity to feed off of a promising appearance. The bigger test is this defense recovering from tonight’s mess. Regain composure in front of your back-up, and get your #1 guy back in the crease on good terms.

The frustrations from the injuries that have plagued our defense have been subdued by Scuderi’s persistent presence. He’s got an astounding +13 when on the ice with 40 blocked shots. Offensive struggles have overshadowed the Kings’ 2.34 goals against per game, which is fourth in the NHL, and the best in the Western Conference. Goaltending aside, Rob Scuderi has stabilized this bruised defensive core to maintain one of the toughest back-ends in the league. The depth he provides covers a lot of ground with holes in the lineup, the defense has been able to hold their own with Scuderi at the stable. He netted his first goal in 108 games on Tuesday, a drought dating back to October 4th of 2008. Rob Scuderi has more game-winning tallies than Drew Doughty and Jack Johnson, chew on that. Give credit where credit’s due, especially when it’s been the underlying support of a battered team.

Three of the four opponents coming to LA are teams we need to beat. With a couple of brutal road-trips in sight, the Kings’ must take advantage of a few flimsy opponents at home. Florida, Detroit, Calgary, and Minnesota are coming, the Red Wings are atop the Western Conference, clearly the most threatening opponent. The Kings’ have an opportunity to boost confidence against a few sub-par clubs, and test themselves against a team who has replaced them atop the conference. We’ve got comfort in hearing promising news regarding Willie Mitchell and Alexei Ponikarovsky‘s injuries, but it’s important that improvement is made before they return.

This offense has been surrendering themselves in the neutral zone. There’s no push, no lanes opening, no confidence entering the zone. The defense has been tentative, gaps galore at the blue-line, no early physical presence. These problems aren’t rooted from the abilities of this roster, just bad performances. Don’t try and tell me Matt Greene and Drew Doughty are this bad. Don’t tell me this offense and power-play doesn’t have the capabilities to be a huge threat. A lot of this is mental, just bad decisions with and without the puck. You’ve always got to brace for a bad stretch, unfortunately this one has been drawn out. Please, put the trade talks on hold for a bit, that’s not going to fix the issues that have evolved from this downfall. Maybe for a boost come the playoffs, not now. I wouldn’t mind seeing Terry Murray settle down with the line shuffles and Manchester transactions. It’s difficult to settle down when the lineup constantly changes, let a few things work themselves out. Here’s to a resurgence at home, whaddya say?

*Photo Credit: Life Magazine

Defense: Just throw out a red carpet on the blue line while you’re at it. Add a little spice to it, maybe some orderves. They’re backing down on the blue line, feeding odd-man rushes. Jack Johnson no longer bothers me with this, I’m used to it. Have Matt Greene and Drew Doughty mentally recovered from their injuries? They’ve been behind on plays, notably Greene. If he’s not physical, he’s not much. Rob Scuderi has been solid, Davis Drewiske is himself, just kind of there. The AHL shuffle continues with Alec Martinez promoted in an effort to boost the power-play. Worked last night, about the only thing that did.

Special Teams: The Kings have weakened on the penalty kill. This is one of the problems you can attest the losses of Willie Mitchell and Alexei Ponikarvsky to. They’re both key factors in the defensive zone, and contributed to a 4-man line that sealed lanes earlier this year. As for this power-play that just can’t score, they’re getting too meticulous. Shoot the puck. Jack Johnson has finally decided to use his wrist-shot from the point, which just begs for screens and rebounds. Where’s Kopitar’s shots from the umbrella? They’re not setting up in the neutral zone, surrendering blue-line rushes and dump-ins into easy control and transition for the defense. This power-play situation has no excuses for their lack of production. No one on the IR hurts it’s output, they’re just not taking shots. Too much action on the point to feed slap-shots. Get some slot presence and stop dancing with the puck.

Now to Jonathan Bernier, this has been a touchy subject with fans. It’s clear he’s not getting enough help from his defense, but you need to make saves, bottom line. In his current stretch of three losses, he’s allowed 14 goals. Unacceptable. He’s faced a lot of shots, dealt with an afflicted defense, but that’s why he’s there. The problems that have hit this defense haven’t necessarily left Bernier out to dry, but have allowed room for development on plays. The signs are coming earlier with the lack of pressure on the blue-line, it’s Bernier’s job to read it and deny it. Not happening. First full season in the NHL and still only 22 years old, his recent play shouldn’t trigger complete uncertainty just yet.

Davis Drewiske has been alright, that’s all I’m giving him. That opinion wouldn’t be quite the same if Drewiske didn’t have such a strong outing Friday night. He’s always just kind of “there”. Not a huge physical presence, and lacks speed. His first three games were nothing to write home about, and at times, downright awful. His play against Calgary and Atlanta had me calling for Peter Harrold. His breakouts had me wincing, he was losing one on one battles WHEN he was able to force them, and his transition was just not good. He will never be anything better than a 6th man for the Kings, but has shown glimpses of filling that spot well. Four blocked shots Friday night, good puck movement for an assist, and a key factor down low in stunting Vancouver’s attack. Really though, now in his third stint with the big club, when does Drewiske stabilize a spot? How many chances can Murray afford to provide, in my opinion, an average defenseman at best? At 25 years old, he’s got a stampede of younger prospects knocking on the door, including his current partner Jake Muzzin.

Before I get to Muzzin, Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insider got some interesting thoughts from head coach Terry Murray regarding the situation. Murray is quoted saying the following: “Whiskey [Drewiske] has played well. I like a lot of Whiskey’s game right now. He’s coming back from a finish that wasn’t where it needed to be, and he’s showing a lot of confidence in his play. It’s not going to be a hard call. Greener will be in whenever he gets the green light and we feel that he’s physically on top of his game.” This was in response to Hammond asking Murray whether he would have a tough choice upon Greene’s return. This has all signs pointing to Drewiske staying in a Kings uniform when Matt Greene returns.

Now for Jake Muzzin, I can’t help but be pleased with the rookie’s output in the first week. There’s no doubt in my mind Muzzin has a brighter future than Drewiske, but that may not be the factor in Murray’s decision. He’s got better offensive ability than Drewiske, and his work in the defensive zone comes with a glaring physical presence. His shot, speed, and work in the corners is better, it’s that simple. Muzzin impressed just as much as Drewiske Friday night, and quite frankly, has been more consistent. Muzzin, much like Drewiske, isn’t going to catch the highlight reel. Both players are expected to play a one-sided defensive game. Unfortunately, Muzzin may be in Manchester come next week, and for the wrong reason. He’ll lose the battle to the more experienced man, and in the first two weeks of the season. Terry Murray has me scratching my head yet again if his quote (above) provides any indication of the decision to come. Already icing the youngest roster in the NHL, Murray may be shying away from dumping an experienced Drewiske. At just 21 years old, the American Hockey League looks to be Muzzin’s next stop. This won’t be the last you see of the young defensive stalwart in a Kings’ uniform.

- – -

Notes on the Game:
– On Chicago’s First Goal: I’m usually harsh on the Kings defensive play, but Chicago moved the puck down-low perfectly for their first tally. Patrick Kane and Adam Burish did a wonderful job of controlling the puck behind the goal line, ultimately finding Patrick Sharp for the goal. No blame on Kings defense here, kudos to the Blackhawks.
– On LA’s first Goal: Sean O’Donnell was the key to Dustin Brown‘s wrap-around marker, making it possible as he stepped up from the blue-line to keep the puck in offensive territory that had all intentions of clearing the zone.
On LA’s second Goal: Drew Doughty and Jarret Stoll work the puck on the blue-line beautifully to feed an open Anze Kopitar who rifled a gorgeous wrist shot to beat Antti Niemi on the power-play. Great puck control on the point with heavy pressure to construct a goal.
On Chicago’s second Goal: Matt Greene, on his back feet, failed to clear the puck, allowing Kris Versteeg to find the puck in front of the net, eventually capitalizing on his own rebound to tie the game.
On Chicago’s OT winner: Brad Richardson, who was defended well with control in the neutral zone, tried to make the best of it with a blind back-hand pass. A risky play in overtime, Dave Bolland cut off Richardon’s neutral zone pass and fed a wide-open Patrick Sharp who walked in alone on Jonathan Quick and ended the game beating a helpless Quick on the back-hand side.

DEFENSEMEN

DREW DOUGHTY #8
GRADE: A-
SYNOPSIS: The 19 year-old Defenseman for the Kings has been a strong asset on the blue line from the start of his NHL career. Playing in every game so far this season, Doughty has posted an exceptional stat-line of 11 goals and 34 assists. His awareness of the ice when he has the puck allows him to be an offensive defensemen. Once he controls the puck in his own zone, Doughty has the ability to create space and either move the puck up the ice laterally with a pass or take it himself with a rush. Doughty has also become a staple on the Kings PP with his puck movement up-top and his stellar shot. Bottom Line: Although Doughty is often a standout player, he’s had a few rough games this year. At his age, that is perfectly reasonable; his ability to recover from his mistakes is impressive.

DAVIS DREWISKE #44
GRADE: C+
SYNOPSIS: After signing a 3-year contract extension before the season, Drewiske’s play has been moderate. Not the type of player who’s going to rack up the points or drop the gloves, so his contributions often go unnoticed. Drewiske, with his lack of speed, has had a little trouble in the transition game, mainly in the neutral zone. Most of the time he knows where to look for passing lanes on the break-out, but we’ve seen a few too many turnovers from #44 this season. Bottom Line: A tough call on Drewiske because he’s not the solid stay-at-home guy you’d like to pair with Doughty or Johnson, or the guy you’d like to pair with another shut-down D-man. Drewiske, for this year, will continue to float around Murray’s D-line pairings.

MATT GREENE #2
GRADE: B+
SYNOPSIS: The guy is providing the Kings with exactly what they acquired him for. His physical play down low is some of the best in knocking opposition off of the puck. You’re not going to see a lot of anything else from the Alternate Captain. He makes the simple passes, and puts the puck on net when necessary. His mindset is always Defense; And this is key when you need a partner to pair with our flashy D-men. Bottom Line: Greene will bring a physical presence to every game, and is smart to not push it to the point where it hurts the team. His leadership in the locker room is vital, where his toughness rubs off on teammates and his humor builds camaraderie in the locker room.

PETER HARROLD #5
GRADE: C
SYNOPSIS: Harrold is a role player for Terry Murray. You could call him a “swingman”, as he accepts the call for taking the ice as a forward or defenseman. A guy like this is good for a team, yet underrated. Harrold, who’s only dressed in 36 games this season for the Kings, has played a conservative style of hockey this year. I haven’t seen a lot of big mistakes from #5 this season, but not too many impressive plays either. He’s not a skill player, but a smart player. Bottom Line: Harrold is a safe bet for Terry Murray when it comes to filling a spot on the bench. I think the word “fill” describes his play perfectly. For now, a good option to have on the roster down the line this season.

JACK JOHNSON #3
GRADE: B-
SYNOPSIS: In what was a tumultuous start to the season for Johnson, his game has stepped up as of late. Missing two games due to an arm injury, Johnson has posted 6 goals and 20 assists in 59 games for the Kings. I had to think for a bit on Johnson’s grading, and I find myself appreciating what he always brings to the ice. Quick feet, good vision of the ice, solid passing. What I see missing from his game this year was his physical play; stepping up on the top of the circles. Johnson also hasn’t been the offensive threat I think he is capable of. Less shots from the blue-line and fewer end-to-end rushes. Bottom Line: Johnson has the tools to be an elite defenseman. Don’t get me wrong, he’s close to having that stature, but right now Johnson seems to still be learning how to utilize his skills to become an exclusive player at the NHL level.

RANDY JONES #12
GRADE: D
SYNOPSIS: Randy Jones has been awful for the Kings this season. Acquired by the Kings off of waivers in October, Jones has posted 5 goals and 9 assists. His performance has been questionable all year; From wary physical play to terrible passes through the middle of the ice, Jones’ mishaps strongly overshadow the positives in his game. Bottom Line: I don’t think Randy Jones will make an impact on the rest of the season. He hasn’t done much to win over the fans, or Terry Murray; Who’s expressed frustration with him. Look for Jones to continue with his mediocre play.

SEAN O’DONNELL
GRADE: C-
SYNOPSIS: O’Donnell’s role on the team is to provide stability in the defensive zone while bringing veteran leadership to this young roster. While his experience is huge for this team, it seems that his game is slipping. O’Donnell’s age may be showing, as he’s getting pushed around in the corners more often this year. O’Donnell has blown coverage several times and is getting beat to the outside too easily. Bottom Line: O’Donnell is a key part to the Kings locker room. A player with his experience and wisdom will help this team as the playoffs loom. I can see O’Donnell lasting one more season with the Kings, but there’s no question his performance on the ice is on the downhill.

ROB SCUDERI #7
GRADE: B+
SYNOPSIS: A key off-season acquisition for the Kings, Scuderi brings playoff experience, solid defensive play, and more veteran leadership to the table. Scuderi has been a wonderful addition. He can be paired with any defenseman on the roster, as he is able to work with the offensive-minded and the stay-at-homers like himself. He’s been able to clear the front of the net and cut off passing lanes through the slot. Bottom Line: Scuderi may be the most important player on the roster when it comes to the playoff stretch. A smart, physical shut-down defenseman who has all of the post-season experience you could ask for, #7 will be a big factor later this season.

Part III: “Dancing in the Reign” on Kingscast.net will be pulling out the grade-book on Kings forwards on the next installment of Kings Grade Reports. What would you grade King’s defensemen so far? Please post comments downstairs!

Since this weekend has altered my schedule a bit, I’m going to go back to the quick bullet-point style that I find so useful on this type of occasion. I hope everyone has had a great 4-day weekend because I definitely have.

• Matt Greene got his first goal of the season, which was also the game-winning goal against the Oilers. It was a pass out to the point and a lob to the goalmouth that beat Jeff Deslauriers over his shoulder.
• The Andrei Loktionov experiment halted to a standstill with a dislocated shoulder at the end of the game against the Oilers, which is completely unfortunate for him and the team.
• Thank you, Patrick O’Sullivan.
• The Kings were atrocious in the faceoff circle at 42% and 38%, respectively. A certain number 28 needs to get back in the lineup ASAP.
• I’ve actually liked Teddy Purcell‘s play in these two games on the top line. He’s not the greatest replacement but I think he’ll be an adequate stand-in while not adding too much in terms of offensive production. It’s a shame Terry Murray is changing it up again by putting Alexander Frolov back on the left wing.
• Michael Handzus took out Ales Hemsky and he is now out for the rest of the season with shoulder surgery.
• The other rookie experiment of Brayden Schenn took only one game as well. He was signed to a one-game contract and will not be returning to the lineup for tonight’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks.
• The Vancouver Canucks presented a much harder challenge to the Kings than the Oilers on Thursday and they fell 4 to 1. Roberto Loungo was the wall for the Canucks and Jonathan Quick was playing well until the third period with a collapse of three goals against. The last goal was by Kyle Wellwood who is such a great player he hit the post before scoring in the empty net. Great job, guy.
• The player of these two games was definitely Wayne Simmonds. He had the most jump of everyone and was the only to get a goal in both games.

That’s all I got, folks. Thanks for stopping by. I truely appreciate it! Also, please check out the new episode of KingsCast titled Injury Bugged.

But, at least for one night, Ovechkin has some company at the top from an unexpected source.

On Thursday night, the Los Angeles Kings held on for a 5-4 overtime victory over the Dallas Stars in front of 15,042 fans at Staples Center.

The Kings were led by center Anze Kopitar’s three goals, his first NHL hat trick, giving the Kings a three-goal lead heading into the third period.

Kopitar has now scored eight goals and has added eight assists for sixteen points, matching Ovechkin, who has nine goals and seven assists for sixteen points through games played through October 22.

But Kings goaltender Jonathan Quick had a poor third period, allowing the Stars to tie the game on two soft goals allowed by Quick and another while he was partially screened.

Center Michal Handzus was the Kings’ savior in the overtime period, scoring 55 seconds into the extra frame.

Listen to Anze Kopitar, Matt Greene, Dustin Brown and Terry Murray courtesy of