Los Angeles Kings: Anze Kopitar and Other Possible NHL Award Winners

The Los Angeles Kings sit on the verge of a breakout season. For the first time in years they are legitimate Stanley Cup contenders. Awards and accolades usually follow teams that have great seasons.

If the trend follows, the Kings should have players in line to earn some of the major awards handed out at the conclusion of every season.

Let’s take a look at some Kings that could potentially go home next summer with some hardware.

Anze Kopitar

Don’t be surprised if Anze Kopitar contends for the Hart Trophy this season.

The Hart Trophy, the award given to the player considered most valuable to his team, is often considered the most prestigious of the NHL awards.

Anze Kopitar will at the very least be a point-per-game centre this year. His size, speed and offensive ability make him one of the most well-rounded players in the league.

Look for Kopitar to get nominated for the Hart along with Alex Ovechkin and Henrik Sedin.

Jonathan Quick

Goaltender Jonathan Quick will compete for the Vezina and William Jennings trophies in June.

The Vezina is awarded to the league’s best goalie. Pekka Rinne and Henrik Lundqvist will be his competition.

Quick plays his positions well and has proven himself as a very durable goalie. He is also very quick (sorry, I had to) and just about ready to enter his prime.

The Kings play a style that keeps them from allowing many goals. That will play in Quick’s favour as his team allows the least amount of goals against this season, earning the William Jennings Trophy.

Drew Doughty

Defenseman Drew Doughty will win his first Norris Trophy as the league’s best defender.

After signing a mammoth eight-year, $56 million dollar contract, Doughty heads into the season with something to prove to his critics.

The star defender makes a case for himself with his slick skating, his passing skills and his offensive abilities.

Doughty fends off Shea Weber and Tyler Myers for the Norris as he continues to develop into a franchise defenseman.

Dustin Brown

Now here’s one you wouldn’t have seen coming. Dustin Brown will hoist the Conn Smythe trophy as the playoff MVP right before he hoists the Stanley Cup.

Anze Kopitar may be LA’s top offensive player, but it will be the captain that leads his team to the cup.

Brown’s penchant for hard hits, mixed with his ability to score goals, makes him the perfect player to have in the playoffs.