Los Angeles Kings in a Playoff Hunt Despite Recent Struggles
The Los Angeles Kings have hit a rough patch, losing 12 of their last 14 games, yet they still cling to a playoff position. Their recent performance contrasts sharply with the start of the season, raising concerns about their ability to maintain their standing in the competitive Western Conference.
Current Standings and Road Challenges Ahead
Currently, the Kings find themselves fourth in the Pacific Division, holding onto the first wild card spot for the playoffs from the Western Conference. This precarious position is tested further by their upcoming schedule, which has them playing seven of their next eight games on the road. The team's resilience will be put to the test as they face this challenging stretch away from home.
Coaching Tenure and Commitment
Head coach Todd McLellan is navigating his fifth season at the helm of the Kings. He recently secured a contract extension that will see him continue through the 2024-25 season, indicating a strong vote of confidence from the organization. General Manager Rob Blake has expressed unwavering support for McLellan, despite the Kings' current struggles. It is clear that the franchise values continuity and believes in McLellan's long-term vision for the team.
Performance Versus Potential
While the results have been disappointing of late, the Kings' underlying numbers suggest they are underperforming relative to their potential. McLellan acknowledges the discrepancy between the team's solid early-season play and its recent downturn. He accepts responsibility for the slump, emphasizing the need for tactical adjustments and motivational strategies to help the team recapture its earlier form.
"I'm responsible for this. And when you looked at the team that played the first, what would we call it, 25, 30 games if you will, it doesn't look like the team that's playing right now. And I'm responsible for it," McLellan stated, reflecting on the team's journey so far this season.
He continued, "Our staff is doing what we can or what we believe we can to get them to turn it around. We're trying different things at different times. But I'm going to keep pushing away. I'm going to try and push buttons, poke people, praise people, look at how we do things."
Players' Perspective on Responsibility and Effort
Team captain Anze Kopitar emphasizes the importance of player performance, suggesting that while coaching provides the necessary framework, it ultimately falls on the players to execute on the ice. "I mean, it comes down to this room. They give us a plan, they give us the structure, the motivation or the kick in the [rear end]. It is what it is, but it's about the guys that have to bring it out on the ice and make things happen," Kopitar said, highlighting the players' role in turning the season around.
Defenseman Drew Doughty echoed Kopitar's sentiments, focusing on the collective effort and selflessness required for the team to succeed. "We feel that every single player on this team needs to give 100-percent effort. And you're not going to have your best stuff every night, but if we all give our 100-percent effort, we're a good enough team," Doughty remarked. He further elaborated on the team's philosophy, "If we play together, we're going to win games, so you don't need one player to be the best player on the ice every single night. That's not the way we win games. We win games as a team, collectively and playing for the team."
Recent Homestand and Playoff Experience
The Kings concluded their recent four-game homestand with a record of 1-2-1, a result that reflects their ongoing challenges. However, the team has made the playoffs in each of the past two seasons, indicating a foundation of success that they can build upon. The experience gained from these playoff runs could prove invaluable as they strive to overcome their current adversity.
As the Kings embark on their critical road trip, the combination of strategic coaching, strong leadership from veterans like Kopitar and Doughty, and a commitment to team effort will be crucial. With the playoffs in sight, the Los Angeles Kings are determined to prove that their early-season promise was no fluke and that they have the tenacity to be contenders when the postseason arrives.