There isn’t much that can be said about the Kings at this point that hasn’t already been said. They’re a really complicated bunch, delivering mixed results.
If you’re a fan of positivity, though, here’s an important note:
UPDATE: 9-4-2 https://t.co/o4P6q4xVpv
— John Hoven | The Mayor (@mayorNHL) April 1, 2021
This will be the third time this season the Kings and Sharks have completed a two-game set. LA took the first one 6-2 in February and San Jose grabbed a 4-2 victory in their most recent set last week.
As for what lineup coach Todd McLellan will use tonight, it’s really anybody’s guess. He was non-committal to any changes after the game on Friday night and the team went without a morning skate today. To add even more chaos into the mix, Toby Bjornfot could possibly return on defense, as there was never really a clear indication given regarding his situation – beyond the 19-year-old defenseman being ‘doubtful’ for last night. We’ll assume he’ll skip another game. No reason to rush him back.
Kurtis Gabriel was scratched by the Sharks last night and is said to be out for the rematch, as well. We’re not expecting Kurtis MacDermid to play tonight either. Instead, look for Kale Clague to make his return to the LA blueline.
Ironically, Clague’s last game with the Kings was also the last time they beat the Sharks, back on February 11. He played 20+ minutes that night, was credited with four shots on goal, and ended the game with a plus-1 rating.
Up front, McLellan did put wingers Andreas Athanasiou and Adrian Kempe with center Anze Kopitar late in the game on Friday. While it was a little surprising to see Alex Iafallo without Kopitar, McLellan could go back to it again.
LA Kings projected PURE GUESS lineup vs. San Jose Sharks
Iafallo – Kopitar – Kempe
Athanasiou – JAD – Brown
Moore – Andersson – Vilardi
Grundstrom – Lizotte – Carter
Anderson – Doughty
Clague – Roy
Walker – Strand
Update: Roy has been added to the protocol list. Durzi activated from taxi, likely serves as extra D in pregame warmups. Now expecting pairs of…
Anderson – Doughty
Clague – Walker
MacDermid – Strand
Quick (starter)
Petersen
Other players available:
Kurtis MacDermid
Toby Bjornfot
Austin Wagner
Not available:
Martin Frk (IR)
Olli Maatta (out week-to-week)
Brendan Lemieux (story here)
The taxi squad is currently comprised of Matt Luff, Drake Rymsha, Sean Durzi, and Troy Grosenick.
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