The Los Angeles Kings had the sixth best record in the Western Conference last year, and that seems to show that their patient approach to player development is working. Led by Center Anze Kopitar and Defensemen Drew Doughty this team was in playoff contention for the whole season. They played solid hockey and the future seems to be very bright for the on the ice product of the LA Kings. The best news is they played well enough to show signs that many a return to the post season is what we should expect out of this club.
Terry Murray returns for his third year behind the Kings bench. In that time he has compiled an 80-64-20 record, and has done a marvelous job of rebuilding this franchise. When he arrived he preached defense first, and once his team had that mastered he added the offense. The best thing about Murray is he does not play favorites, and will give ice team to the players getting the job done.
The Kings’ breakout candidate should be Forward Brad Richardson. He once racked up a 97 point season in the minors, so he has a ton of potential. Last year he had a career year in the NHL with 27 points. It looks like he is heading in the right direction and should be able to produce big numbers for this club.
Key Addition- LW Alexei Ponikarovsky
Key Subtractions- D Sean O’Donnell, LW Raitis Ivanans, LW Alexander Frolov, and D Drew Bagnall
Related Links:
•Joshua Lobdell.com
