I think they should make Hallmark cards for awkward hockey situations. One that they could’ve used last night would go: “Congratulations on your First NHL Shutout!” And then on the inside it would say, “Sorry you couldn’t enjoy it. We promise to score at least one goal next time.” Love, the Kings.
Negatives from last night: It should have gone much better. I don’t know what in the heck is going on with Dustin Brown. Positives from last night: I like Mitchell and Doughty together. Four games in a row with points.
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Kings Roster Notes: (IN) Jonathan Quick will get his first start since the break. Kevin Westgarth may play tonight. (OUT) Marco Sturm (knee), Scott Parse (hip).
Oilers Roster Notes: (IN) Nikolai Khabibulin, Ales Hemsky. (OUT) Ryan Whitney (knee),Gilbert Brule (upper body). Jordan Eberle, though close to returning from an ankle injury, will sit out tonight.
Oilers Coach Tom Renney says he expects the Kings to be a more alert team, given that they shook off the rust last night. God, I hope that’s true. If it’s not, pass the smelling salts.
Though the Kings were able to score plenty of goals in their 5-2 win over the Oilers (1/15), it’s worth noting that none of those came on the power play. The Oilers’ PK ranks last at only 73.9%. In both games against them, the Kings have gone 1 for 6. Terry Murray has changed up his first power play unit, so things better get going tonight.