The Los Angeles Kings have some work to do this season if they are going to grab a playoff spot. So far this season, things have not gone to plan as the team has been quite average. Trying to work out of their funk, the Kings still remain tied for second place in the Pacific Division.
The plan this season was to get back to the playoffs and continue to develop young talent. Both are happening but the success on the ice is not what they were hoping for. The Kings’ play has been sloppy and the defense needs some retooling.
As mentioned above, the Kings so far have been average. In fact, the statistics show the team has been just that. The team is at the league average for wins, losses, points, points percentage, and shooting percentage. The Kings have been above average in goals for, power play opportunities, shots for, and saves. Los Angeles has been below average in goals against, penalty kill percentage, and save percentage. All big categories if they want to challenge for a playoff spot.
The three statistics the Kings are below average in are three of the main reasons the Kings have been average so far. The penalty kill is often running in their own zone chasing the puck and the goaltending has been less than stellar. The focus from here on out has to be improving in those areas or the Kings will not be making a playoff appearance this season.
On offense, the Kings could be better but the offensive group has been solid all season. The young players that have been called up to play in spots have done well and have shown no hesitation in getting in on the play. The Los Angeles Kings do have work to do but it is not a case to overdo everything a few tweaks here and there should have them back on the right track.
With plenty of time to still go in the season, the Kings have time to turn this around and capture the Pacific Division. They are not out of it by any means but they are digging themselves a hole. The division is extremely tight and there for the taking.
(photo: lakingsinsider.com; Zach Dooley)
(photo: nhl.com; Robyn Dutton)
