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Kings Gamble on New D-Pairs for Playoff Hope
1 Apr
Summary
- Kings employ new defense pairings to boost playoff chances.
- Team's home record is a poor 10-17-8 this season.
- Crucial upcoming games against Blues and Predators.
With only nine games left in the regular season, the Los Angeles Kings are making a desperate bid for a playoff spot. Head coach D.J. Smith has introduced new defensive pairings at practice, a move aimed at revitalizing the team. Drew Doughty is now skating with Brian Dumoulin, while Mikey Anderson will partner with Cody Ceci.
These changes come after a disappointing 6-2 loss to the Utah Mammoth, marking the Kings' fifth defeat in their last six games. The team's home record of 10-17-8 this season has been a particular concern. "We're at home. We haven't been great at home this year," acknowledged Mikey Anderson.
The Kings face two pivotal home games consecutively. First, they host the St. Louis Blues, who are three points behind them. The following night, they will play the Nashville Predators, who currently hold the final wild card spot by a single point. The team acknowledges the urgency, with forward Alex Laferriere stating, "I think everybody's kind of in the same mindset of how important these games are and that we need to win these games."
