The Kings had a breakout year last season. They tied their franchise record for wins in a season (46), had the third most points in franchise history (101), and made the postseason for the first time since the 2001-02 season. The Kings eventually lost to the Canucks in six games in the Western Conference quarterfinals, but the season has to be considered a step in the right direction for general manager Dean Lombardi and head coach Terry Murray.
20-year-old Drew Doughty played well above his age and NHL experience. The former second overall pick of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft had a breakout year. His 59 points was good for second on the team and third in the NHL in scoring among defensemen. He had five game winning goals, best in the league for a defender, and played a great two-way game with a +20. Doughty did not seemed phase by the speed of the NHL playoffs as he led the team in points (seven points in six games) and was tied for the lead with three goals. Not to mention, he was a part of the Canadian Olympic Gold Medal team. `
The Kings were led in scoring for the third straight year by center Anze Kopitar. The soon to be 23-year-old had career highs in goals (34), assists (47), points (81), power play goals (14) and plus minus (+8). Free Agent pick up Ryan Smyth, when healthy, added a much needed offensive punch scoring 22 goals and 53 points in only 67 games played.
The Kings also benefited from the continued development of goaltender Jonathan Quick. The 24-year-old ranked sixth in the NHL in wins (39) and prove he could take the bulk of the playing time, playing in 72 games (fourth in the league). He succeeded even with former first round pick, and Kings Goalie of the future, Jonathan Bernier, nipping at his heals, who has a 3-0 record with only four goals against in three games last season.
Offseason Ins:
LW Alexei Ponika...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Kings
