Saturday, July 19 2008 -- The Los Angeles Kings have struggled to perform over the past few seasons. In a division loaded with talented offenses and deep defenses, the Kings have achieved little more than mediocrity at either end of the ice. This offseason, the team made a number of moves to pick up more draft picks, and will have a major impact on the next few NHL Entry Drafts. While losing center Mike Camallieri and star defenseman Rob Blake may not look like a step in the right direction, the moves will give the Kings the ability to maneuver freely over the next few seasons as they attempt to rebuild.

With Conference semi-finalists Dallas and San Jose in the division, along with the 2007 Cup champion Anaheim Ducks, Los Angeles picked the right time to rebuild. With the Sharks loading up on talent for a potential Cup run, and even the lowly Coyotes making some major moves to attempt to climb out of the basement, any effort on the part of the Kings to make a shot at the playoffs this season would most likely have ended in futility. With Dallas and San Jose loaded up with veteran talent, the best thing the Kings can do is build their roster with talented young skaters who will have their biggest impact a few years down the road. With new head coach Terry Murray at the helm, look for Los Angeles to be back in contention within the next few seasons. Until then, it might be a good idea to pick up some Lakers tickets if you’re a sports fan in Los Angeles.