In the unforgiving landscape of the NHL’s Pacific Division, the Los Angeles Kings are carving out a new identity. It’s one forged in the fires of close games, defined by a revitalized penalty kill, and tested by the absence of a cornerstone defenseman. With a record of 10-6-5, the Kings are not just surviving; they are evolving, showcasing a resilience that could define their season.
A Tale of Two Special Teams
The Kings’ recent performances have been a microcosm of their season: a blend of brilliance and frustration. Their penalty kill, once a glaring weakness, has transformed into a formidable weapon. In November, the unit has been nothing short of spectacular, boasting a 95% success rate. This dramatic turnaround is a testament to the coaching staff’s adjustments and the players’ execution. The addition of players like Cody Ceci and Brian Dumoulin, who have seamlessly integrated into the system, has been pivotal. Their disciplined play, coupled with the aggressive forechecking of forwards like Alex Laferriere and the almost unbelievable shorthanded prowess of Joel Armia, has made the Kings one of the most dangerous teams in the league when down a man. Armia, in particular, has been a revelation. With two shorthanded goals to his name, he is tied for the league lead and, astoundingly, boasts a positive expected goals for percentage while on the penalty kill. His ability to turn a defensive situation into an offensive opportunity has provided a significant boost to the team.
However, the Kings’ newfound dominance on the penalty kill has been contrasted by their struggles in the shootout. The recent 4-3 shootout loss to the San Jose Sharks was a bitter pill to swallow. After a valiant comeback effort, capped by Adrian Kempe’s game-tying goal with less than a minute remaining in regulation, the Kings were unable to secure the extra point. This has been a recurring theme for the team, and it’s a problem they will need to address as the season progresses. In a division as tight as the Pacific, every point is crucial, and leaving points on the table in the shootout could come back to haunt them.
Kempe’s Ascension and Doughty’s Absence
While the team’s special teams have been a major storyline, the performance of Adrian Kempe has been equally compelling. The 29-year-old forward is in the midst of a breakout season, leading the team with 20 points and showcasing the offensive firepower that earned him a lucrative eight-year contract extension. His recent form has been particularly impressive, with six points in his last four games against the Sharks. Kempe’s ability to create scoring chances, both for himself and his teammates, has been a driving force for the Kings’ offense. His clutch play, including two overtime winners earlier in the season, has further solidified his status as a go-to player in critical moments.
The Kings’ offensive depth has been a significant asset, with veterans like Anze Kopitar providing consistent production and leadership. However, the team’s defense is currently facing its biggest test of the season. The loss of Drew Doughty, who was recently placed on injured reserve with a lower-body injury, is a massive blow. Doughty is the heart and soul of the Kings’ blue line, and his absence will be felt in all situations. The team will need its other defensemen to step up in his absence, and the pressure will be on players like Ceci and Dumoulin to log heavy minutes against top competition. The recall of Pheonix Copley from the AHL provides goaltending depth, but it’s the play of the six defensemen in front of the net that will ultimately determine the Kings’ success in the coming weeks.
The Road Ahead: A Gauntlet of Contenders
The Kings’ upcoming schedule is a gauntlet of formidable opponents. Their recent 2-1 overtime loss to the Boston Bruins was a hard-fought battle, and it’s a preview of the challenges that lie ahead. With games against the Ottawa Senators, Vancouver Canucks, and Washington Capitals on the horizon, the Kings will be tested against some of the league’s top teams. The Pacific Division is a logjam, with just a few points separating the top five teams. The Kings are right in the thick of the playoff race, but they have little room for error. Every game, every shift, will have playoff implications.
The key to the Kings’ success will be their ability to build on their strengths while addressing their weaknesses. Their penalty kill is a legitimate weapon, and it will need to remain at an elite level. Darcy Kuemper, who has been stellar in November with a .921 save percentage and a 1.86 goals-against average, will need to continue his strong play. And, most importantly, the team will need to find a way to win the close games, whether it’s in overtime or the shootout. The Kings have shown that they can compete with the best teams in the league. Now, they need to prove that they can beat them on a consistent basis. The journey ahead is arduous, but the Kings have the talent, the resilience, and the identity to not only survive, but to thrive in the crucible of the NHL season.
