Record: 26-18-3. 55 pts Conference Rank: 8th Division Rank: 3rd Top Scorer: Anze Kopitar (18 goals, 27 assists, 45 points) Top Goalie: Jonathan Quick (24 wins, 2.53 GAA) Midseason Grade: A-
One of the biggest surprises of the 2009-10 season is the rise of the LA Kings. A bottom feeder since the lockout, the Kings were not projected to be making a move to the top of the league any time soon. Someone should have told them that, because for the first couple months, the Kings were one of the hottest teams on ice. Anze Kopitar found instant chemistry with Ryan Smyth and Justin Williams, forming one of the most complete set of linemates in the league.
Kopitar has developed into a full on superstar, capable of gamechaning performances for his team. However, one of the biggest factors in his development has been the addition of Ryan Smyth. The veteran winger’s positive influence on Kopitar’s game is undeniable – when Smyth went down with an injury for a short time, so did Kopitar’s numbers. When he returned, Anze started scoring again.
On defense, the Kings are stacked with young talent. Drew Doughty and Jack Johnson will both be playing in Vancouver, Doughty for the Canadians and Johnson for the Americans. Jonathan Quick is having a breakout season, and looks like he could be the goalie of the future for this young, hopeful club. The Kings should make the playoffs, and once you’re in, with a young team, anything is possible.