Los Angeles Kings' Playoff Hopes Amidst Struggles
The Los Angeles Kings have hit a rough patch in their current NHL season, losing 12 of their last 14 games. Despite this slump, they are still holding onto a playoff position, sitting fourth in the Pacific Division and occupying the first wild card spot from the Western Conference. However, with seven of their next eight games scheduled on the road, the team faces a significant challenge to maintain their standing.
Coaching Tenure and Support
Head coach Todd McLellan is in his fifth season at the helm of the Kings. He has received a vote of confidence from General Manager Rob Blake, securing a contract extension that will see him lead the team through the 2024-25 season. McLellan has acknowledged his role in the team's performance, taking responsibility for the downturn after a more promising start to the season.
"I'm responsible for this," McLellan said. "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."
Despite the team's struggles, McLellan remains committed to finding solutions and turning the tide. "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," he explained.
Underlying Performance Metrics
Interestingly, the Kings' underlying numbers indicate a discrepancy between their actual results and expected performance. McLellan pointed out this inconsistency, stating, "Our numbers -- our underlying numbers -- say we're more the first-half team than the second-half team, but the winning column doesn't say that, and that's all that matters. So, it's a very fair question."
Players' Perspectives
Team captain Anze Kopitar has emphasized the importance of player accountability and performance. "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 asserted.
Drew Doughty, one of the team's veteran leaders, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for collective effort and selflessness among the players. "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 stated.
He further elaborated on the team's approach to winning games, saying, "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 play, collectively and playing for the team."
Recent Performance and Playoff Experience
The Kings recently completed a four-game homestand with a record of 1-2-1, an outcome that has done little to alleviate concerns over their form heading into the crucial stretch of the season. Nevertheless, the team has a history of success in recent years, making the playoffs in each of the past two seasons. This experience could prove invaluable as they navigate through their upcoming schedule and attempt to secure a playoff berth once again.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Kings find themselves at a crossroads in their season. With strong support from management, a coach determined to rectify the situation, and players who are aware of the need to elevate their game, the team has the tools necessary to overcome their current adversity. As they embark on a challenging series of road games, the Kings must harness their collective strength and tap into their proven capacity for success to solidify their playoff position and make another deep run in pursuit of the Stanley Cup.