It wasn’t a cost cutting move, but the Kings cut back on overtime yesterday.
In their three previous games with Minnesota this season they needed more than three periods to determine an outcome. Last night, they downed the Wild 4-2 in just 60 minutes.
Below are some post game notes followed by video highlights…
* Dustin Brown played one of his better games this year. He was everywhere, including in the face of several opposing players. His two assists weren’t a true measure of his impact on the outcome.
* Jonathan Bernier continued to look good in net. He stopped 25 of 27 shots, giving up one even strength and one power play goal. That’s five of six games now where he’s given up two or fewer goals.
* More on the Kings’ goaltending – LA and Nashville have given up the fewest goals in the Western Conference (146) and trail only Boston (145) for the NHL lead. And the Bruins have played one fewer game.
* Drew Doughty‘s 25:55 of ice team lead all players in the game. Unfortunately, his penalty late in the second period led to the aforementioned Wild PPG with just seconds remaining until intermission. However, it wasn’t long after the break when Doughty scored to put the Kings back up 3-2. His big fist pump told you all you needed to know about his competitiveness level last night.
* Kyle Clifford played a team low 9:13. That’s something to keep an eye on. As much as everybody loves The Colonel, you have to remember he’s a kid playing in a man’s league. Plus, he’s out there fighting too. He needs to get some rest down the stretch, especially considering the NHL season is much longer than a junior schedule – not to mention the added travel.
* The Kings are now 3-0 in their vintage purple and gold jerseys this season, with wins opening night vs. Vancouver, January 15 vs. Edmonton and last night vs. Minnesota. They’ll wear them for the final time March 19th vs. Anaheim.
The Mayor
www.twitter.com/MayorNHL
www.facebook.com/MayorsManor
RELATED ARTICLES:
Clearing the Crease With Jonathan Bernier
Cruising The Mall with Simmonds and Doughty
Dustin Brown Ready for Something New
