Mike Richards on coach Sutter and his return vs Ducks

In perhaps the best news of the day for the LA Kings, Mike Richards has been officially activated from IR and is set to play in tonight’s game vs. the Anaheim Ducks.

The Kings top goal scorer through the first two months of the season, Richards has missed the last eight games due to concussion like symptoms suffered in a game against Florida on December 1st.

His return will be more than welcomed by an offense that hasn’t scored more than two goals in a game without him. He missed the team’s last game vs. Anaheim. However, in the two previous games with the Ducks this season, Richards scored three goals.

Due to the NHL roster freeze until next week, he was able to be activated from IR without a corresponding roster move. However, the situation probably is just delaying the inevitable, as one will be needed next week (provided everybody remains healthy until then).

After practice today, Richards provided a few early thoughts on the Kings new head coach, Darryl Sutter…

“Just as I expected, he’s a very smart hockey guy. At times, it’s tough to tell in practice. But, I’ve talked to a lot of people around the league who have played for him and I didn’t hear one bad thing about him. He’s an intense guy and demands the best. I think that’s what we need right now.”

On his return to action tonight, Richards added – “I’m excited to play again. It’s frustrating just sitting in a dressing room and not being able to do anything to help. So, I’m looking forward to playing.”

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