The Los Angeles Kings found themselves within a shot of defeating the San Jose Sharks in Game 1 of their Western Conference Quarterfinal series, and therefore getting a huge momentum shift and stripping San Jose of their home ice advantage. However, Joe Pavelski came through late in overtime, and the Sharks did go up 1-0 in the series. The two teams face-off again at HP Pavilion in San Jose tonight.
Kings Vs. Sharks, Game 2: Kings Look To Even The Series Without Jarret Stoll
The big story for Los Angeles is that they will be without centerman Jarret Stoll, who was suspended for one game for his hit on Ian White of the Sharks in Game 1. Stoll had been the Kings' number one center in the absence of Anze Kopitar. Oscar Moller will step in for Stoll in the Los Angeles lineup, and likely pick up his ice time on the power play. Jonathan Quick, who played extremely well in the loss Thursday, will start again for Los Angeles.
As for the Sharks, the aforementioned Ian White will not be playing in Game 2, which is a definite loss for the Sharks. Coach Todd McClellan will wait until game-time to decide on White's replacement. It'll either be the veteran (and Stanley Cup winner) Kent Huskins, or the rookie Justin Braun in his stead. It'll be interesting to see which team works in their replacement more effectively.
We’ll be here all night with updates from the game. For more from around the rivalry, check out Fear the Fin, Jewels From the Crown and Battle of California. See you later tonight.
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