Since we last wrassled with the San Jose Sharks:
IN: Moore, Wingels
OUT: Douglas Murray (lower body), Michal Handzus
Enemy Reading: Fear the Fin
Possible lines:
Marleau-Thornton-Pavelski
Clowe-Couture-Havlat
Galiardi-Moore-Mitchell
Wingels-Desjardins-Winnik
Vlasic-Boyle
White-Burns
Demers-Braun
Kings lineup: Sutter was being very cagey about Slava Voynov earlier today, but let’s assume he’s in. Carter will keep recuperating so long as the Kings win this one.
The Kings dominated the Sharks in every way last time out, out-chancing them soundly in one of the most lopsided games SJ had seen. That was not a characteristic effort from San Jose, however. Like the Kings, are a strong possession team that clawed their way back into the playoff picture. LA’s not going to underestimate them tonight.
San Jose’s game plan is to get 30-plus shots on net and create traffic in front of Jonathan Quick, who “stops everything he sees.” Quick has been stellar against the Sharks this season, and is no doubt as eager for a playoff spot as he is for redemption.
The Kings have excelled at limiting shots against and controlling the play of late. Two of Quick’s record ten shutouts this season have come in the last three games.
The Pacific’s on the line tonight. A regulation win would boost their odds of making the playoffs to 99%. Get that third seed.