Kings-Coyotes: The Hits Just Keep on Coming As L.A. Falls

Game 38: Coyotes 3, Kings 2

Wow, that could've gone better.

The Kings returned to the ice after gorging themselves on holiday ham and figgy pudding to play the resurgent Phoenix Coyotes.

You know, those same Phoenix Coyotes who were all stressed out about their ownership situation, until the Ice Edge Holdings investment group stepped up to the plate and made a play to buy the team and keep them in Arizona. Guess the news of stability has given this team new life as they have been money at home ever since.

Really, the news of Justin Williams broken leg was the focus of many of the stories here in L.A., and rightfully so. This team has been dinged up so much, yet has continued to find a way to win. The Kings got back Jack MF'n Johnson, Wayne Simmonds, and Brandon Segal, but lost Jarret Stoll and Williams.

What else is new?

The Kings seemed to rally around their fallen comrade and tallied the first goal when Dustin Brown picked up a rebound to score his ninth of the season. But the 'Yotes scored twice to take the lead going into the second period.

Jonny (don't-call-me-Jonathon) Quick was stellar as usual, keeping the Coyotes off the board while making several killer saves. And when Anze Kopitar's wrister was knocked in by Michal Handzus, the Kings had Phoenix right where they wanted them. Too bad the inexperience of Corey Elkins caused him to cough up the puck and cost the Kings the game.

That sounds harsh, but I really didn't think Elkins needed to be in the lineup. Considering the Kings got back Simmonds and were well-rested, Elkins should've been sent down to Manchester and allowed Peter Harrold or Teddy Purcell to play.

More than likely, coach Terry Murray probably felt Elkins should get more time with the club, considering how well he played in 13+ minutes against Calgary. Either way, it's a lesson that might haunt the rookie from West Bloomfield, Mich.

Don't let the horrible news of Williams' broken leg taint this game. The Kings played well, all things considered. They had no takeaways, and played smart, tight defense all game.

Quick should no signs of rust, although the rest of the squad did. They didn't fold when Williams went down, in fact, it spurred them on.

This game was a tuneup, getting all the pieces up to speed. Next game, the Kings should be truly ready to bring their A-game. At least, they can sweat off those extra pieces of pumpkin pie in practice.

Lord knows I need to.

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