Los Angeles Kings' Recent Struggles
The Los Angeles Kings have hit a rough patch, losing 12 of their last 14 games. Despite this slump, they still manage to cling to a playoff position, sitting fourth in the Pacific Division and occupying the first wild card spot from the Western Conference. However, as the team prepares to play seven of their next eight games on the road, they face a critical juncture that could define their season.
Coaching Tenure and Support
Head coach Todd McLellan is navigating his fifth season with the Kings, having secured a contract extension through the 2024-25 season. His tenure has seen highs and lows, but General Manager Rob Blake has expressed continued support for McLellan, even as the team grapples with its current challenges. McLellan himself has taken responsibility for the team's performance, acknowledging the stark contrast between their strong start and their recent faltering.
"I'm responsible for this," McLellan stated. "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."
In response to the downturn, McLellan is exploring various strategies to reverse the team's fortunes. "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 Metrics vs. Results
The Kings' underlying metrics indicate a discrepancy between their expected and actual performance. McLellan pointed out this inconsistency: "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."
This sentiment was echoed by Kings center Anze Kopitar, who emphasized the importance of player execution alongside coaching. "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 said.
Team Ethos and Effort
Defenseman Drew Doughty stressed the necessity of a collective effort and the ethos of selflessness required for the team to succeed. "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 remarked.
Doughty also highlighted the team's approach to winning games, which relies on unity rather than individual heroics. "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 team, collectively and playing for the team," he added.
Recent Homestand and Playoff Experience
The Kings' recent four-game homestand concluded with a record of 1-2-1, underscoring the urgency for improvement as they embark on their upcoming road trip. The team is no stranger to the pressures of high-stakes hockey, having made the playoffs in each of the past two seasons. This experience could prove invaluable as they aim to right the ship and secure their postseason berth once again.
As the Kings venture forward, the coming weeks will be telling. With a seasoned coach at the helm, a supportive general manager, and players committed to a unified front, the team has the components necessary to overcome adversity. Their ability to translate their underlying strengths into victories on the ice will determine their fate as they strive to maintain their standing in the race for the Stanley Cup playoffs.