Los Angeles Kings: Behind Enemy Lines

The Los Angeles Kings have plenty to distract themselves with right now as they try to become the first team to repeat as Stanley Cup Champions in almost twenty years.  The Kings find themselves off to a good started, sitting behind the Anaheim Ducks in the Pacific Division,  but only by three points with a game in hand.

A tough break for the Buffalo Sabres who have to know face the Kings one night after another performance that saw them drop their sixth game of the year.

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But it isn’t all roses in Tinsel Town this year.  The NHL has suspended Slava Koynov for domestic violence.  Now his attorney is speaking out and saying that no, he didn’t hit her, its a misunderstanding because they have a limited ability to speak English.  Isn’t that what a good lawyer is supposed to do though – I mean he is not going to come out and say yes, my client beat his girlfriend?

The Los Angeles Kings are playing it smart too, publicly stating they are in favor of the league’s suspension.  While he has not been charged yet, the NHL has to take a strong stand in the wake of the absolute screwup of the NFL in handling their domestic violence issues.  While Voynov has not been charged – his contact with the team has been limited.

A former Buffalo Sabres defenseman now has the chance to take advantage of additional ice time, as Brayden McNabb now has the chance to prove to the Kings that he is more than a limited minutes defenseman.  McNabb won’t be able to replace Voynov, but he can make an impression.

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Like the team they are chasing in the standings the Los Angeles Kings got off to a slow start, but are now winners of their last four contests – but the team has not had to go on the road much yet this season.  While the team is getting production from some, there are others that need to step up their game, and when they do – the Kings will be a more dominant force than they already are.  Anze Kopitar hasn’t hit his peak form yet, as well as Justin Williams,  If those names sound familiar it is because they are key parts of the Los Angeles Kings.  Getting team production is key, but when those guys heat up, its going to be a long night for some teams.  A game against the Buffalo Sabres might be just what the doctor ordered to open some guys up.

The defending Stanley Cup Champions face off against the Buffalo Sabres tonight at 10:30PM EST.