Since we last tangled with the Anaheim Ducks…
IN: Devante Smith-Pelly, Jeff Deslauriers
OUT: Dan Ellis (groin)
Enemy reading: Anaheim Calling
Possible lines:
Hagman-Getzlaf-Perry
Ryan-Koivu-Selanne
Blake-Cogliano-Smith-Pelly
Beleskey-Bonino-Parros
Beauchemin-Fowler
Sbisa-Visnovsky
Lydman-Brookbank
Hiller
Kings lineup: Clifford is expected to be given a shot a redemption tonight. Though Sutter claims he doesn’t want young players like Clifford or Nolan fighting, you have to wonder if his inclusion has anything to do with the Ducks — a team not known for their gentlemanly play. Anaheim was recently instigated a multi-player brawl with the Sabres as time elapsed. Should be intense.
The Kings must build off their win over the Wild. The top line exploited some egregious defensive breakdowns and finished their chances with aplomb, Jeff Carter created a breakaway scoring chance all on his own, and Alec Martinez remains far and away the Kings’ most aggressive blue-liner (benefiting from soft minutes, this is the second year in a row he’s led Kings defensemen in even-strength shot differential). Expect his points to rise as his overall luck corrects.
Jonathan Quick is back in net after a little rest. Let’s hope they’re ready to rock.