The Los Angeles Kings’ 4-1-1 record to begin the 2014-15 season is deceptive. Head coach Darryl Sutter’s club has not performed well in the least, allowing scoring chances galore and handily losing the puck-possession battle.
Despite those significant blemishes, L.A. has managed to gut out nine of a possible 12 points while only conceding 1.67 goals per game.
This is not a matter of clever schemes or team-wide defensive excellence. Thus far, the Kings have bent without breaking on the strength of two individuals.
Jonathan Quick
L.A.’s early-season doldrums are nothing new, but its horrid possession numbers are.
Through six contests, the team ranks 23rd in the league in Corsi percentage at 47.6. In 2013-14, the Kings sat atop the NHL at 56.8 percent.
Injuries and fatigue from three straight lengthy playoff runs are likely contributing to this dip in play, but it remains a cause for concern.
To this point, Quick has allowed the club to stay afloat with stellar goaltending. The former Conn Smythe Trophy winner hasn’t l ...
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Article written by Vinh Cao
How the Los Angeles Kings Are Bending but Not Breaking to Start 2014-15
October 23rd, 2014 by Vinh Cao Leave a reply »
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