HOW TO WATCH
Game Time: 4:30 PM
TV: Fox Sports West
Radio: KABC AM 790
Stream: Fox Sports Go (requires cable subscription)
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
if you’re a Kings fan: LA ran into a tough opponent yesterday, and after a strong start didn’t pay dividends, they couldn’t muster a late comeback. Jonathan Quick and Drew Doughty each got brief scares from a Derek Forbort punch and a Patrick Marleau skate, respectively, but their health should help heal the sting of the loss. Even with Darcy Kuemper in, the Kings should hopefully have another decent defensive showing, and if their top line can bounce back they might be OK tonight.
if you’re a Senators fan: Ottawa got Erik Karlsson back just after scoring six goals in back-to-back games, and were feeling great! Then they got shut out by Vancouver and lost to New Jersey, and thought they followed that with a bounceback win over Toronto, Bobby Ryan broke his finger. They’re fresh and are playing at home, but it’s still an uncertain time for the Senators.
if you’re a hockey fan: There is a lot to be distracted by today in Los Angeles. Mostly, the heat and the Dodgers. But if you’re not here, and you don’t feel like watching Crosby and McDavid go head-to-head, why not watch Doughty and Karlsson go head-to-head instead?
PLAYERS TO WATCH
for the Kings: Tyler Toffoli. He’s been held off the scoresheet on this road trip, but it’s not for lack of trying; he’s put seven shots on net himself in the two games, and the Kings have attempted 50 shots with Toffoli on the ice in the two games, including 31 against Toronto. Even without Jeff Carter at center, Toffoli should get on the board.
for the Senators: Derrick Brassard. His scoring took a big hit during last year’s regular season, much like Toffoli, and his playoff performance was only slightly better. He’s off to a hot start with six goals in ten games, though, and the Senators need that production.
LEAGUE/WORLDWIDE WATCH
- Gabriel Vilardi, the #11 pick of the Kings at last year’s draft, is finally skating after some thorough rehab from a back sprain and hip injury. Great news. [LA Kings Insider]
- In last night’s other NHL game, the Sharks beat the Rangers behind Tim Heed’s first NHL goal. [Fear the Fin]
- Scary diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome for Patrick Eaves, but it sounds like he’ll make a full recovery. [Anaheim Calling]/
HIGHLIGHTS FROM LAST NIGHT