Games 44-45: Kings vs Edmonton Oilers 1:2 OT; Kings vs San Jose Sharks 2:5

Point streak continues even with OT loss

The Kings came this close to winning three straight

(photo courtesy of www.yahoo.com)

LA goal from: Konstantin Pushkarev
EDM goals from: Stoll, Hejda

Pros: A third-game in a row where the Kings continue to add points in the standings. The shots barrage seems to be back [especially in the first period]. For a change, LA puts their player on 'season's first' list as Pushkarev scores his first NHL career goal to tie the game.

Cons: A first three-game winning streak [at game 44] was within reach, however, it slipped through our fingertips as Hejda became another first-time scorer against the Kings. LA failed to score against the NHL's number one penalty killing unit on the road [0-for-5]. Had they done so, especially in the third, they might have gotten two much needed points rather than one.


Sharks teach Kings a lesson quickly and efficiently

LA will reach this level of talent in 2-3 years
(photo courtesy of www.yahoo.com)

LA goals from: Michael Cammalleri, Anze Kopitar
SJS goals from: Bell, Michalek, Clowe, Marleau, Rissmiller [EN]

Pros: Like in three of the four decisive Shark wins this season, the major pros for the Kings was to have a first-hand experience of what a Lombardi-built team looks like. Efficient passing, timely scoring, killer-instincts and great goaltending. Trouble is, I am talking about the San Jose Sharks at the moment. The crystal ball says the Kings could be able to match this level of talent in 2-3 years' time, if Lombardi is given green light to reconstruct.

Cons: I did not mention it any earlier because the evidence was scarce, but it looks much more likely with eveyr game that Sean Avery is starting to lose the composure he had started the season with. Stupid penalties, arguments with referees and overall nervousness seem to be taking its toll on him.