Kings locker room tense due to trade rumors, per Doughty

Drew Doughty (photo by: D. Sheehan)

The final story on the LA Kings’ season has yet to be written. Several chapters are already completed though, including the season opening trip to Europe, Mike Richards hot streak in November and the firing of Terry Murray in December.

So far, 2012 has seen a reoccurring problem from the past two years somehow become even worse – they just can’t seem to generate goals.

“We feel bad because we know we have the talent in here to score,” explained Drew Doughty. “We have the team that should put way more pucks in the net. We’re not doing the job.”

For as frustrating as that’s been for the organization and fans alike, to show just how close they are to being one of the top teams in the league, think about this – 18 of Jonathan Quick’s 26 losses have been by one goal, including 10 of his last 12.

Averaging just a half-a-goal more per game would make a HUGE difference. Winning just a third of those games (eight of the 26 to be more specific) would give them 81 points and have LA sitting second in the Western Conference.

Like several players on the team, Doughty acknowledged there was pressure in the air in the weeks leading to the coaching change. Then, it left like a breeze through an open window in the early part of the Sutter Era. Yet, things have become tense once again according to the 22-year old defenseman.

The culprit? Those ever-present trade rumors.

“You try to not talk about it too much. But, obviously, you hear all the trade rumors and what not. So, it’s hard. It’s fun to see a new guy come in and that helps make your team better. At the same time, you become so close with the guys on your team and when you see them go, it’s tough. It’s not a fun time. You feel bad for guys who get traded. The atmosphere in here is definitely a little more tense than it usually is. So, I just can’t wait for the deadline to be over with.”

Doughty will only have to wait one more week. The NHL Trade Deadline is noon PST on Monday, February 27.

A few days ago we took a look at the five things at play for the Kings and those pesky trade rumors. If you missed it, click here now.  Back-up goalie Jonathan Bernier also addressed hearing his name as part of those rumors here.