Just like their Southern California brethren, the Kings seemed left-for-dead not too long ago. Now they’re back in the thick of things, both in the Western Conference battle and the race for the Pacific Division crown. The entire team has been streaky, with just about every player having moments of glory and disappointment.
Los Angeles Kings At The 2011 NHL Trade Deadline: Rumors, Needs And Expectations
GM Dean Lombardi is a pragmatist when it comes to contracts and cap space, and Lombardi also wants to build a tough “Canadian” style team. The role of scoring winger still hasn’t been fulfilled since the Kings lost out in the wacky Ilya Kovalchuk sweepstakes over the summer. With Jonathan Bernier rounding into form after playing behind Jonathan Quick all season, it might be time to move him for a top-line forward.
Status: Buyer
Need: Power play help, scoring winger
Players On The Block: Michal Handzus ($4 million), Alexei Ponikarovski ($3.2 million), Jonathan Bernier ($0.843 million)
Prediction: The Kings keep both of their goaltenders but get some depth on forward without making any blockbuster moves.
Further Reading From Jewels From The Crown
This story was written by Mike Chen.
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