Nobody would call the 2014-15 Los Angeles Kings season anything but failure. A season after winning the Stanley Cup, the champions found themselves on the outside of the playoff picture and the inside of the draft lottery.
Defense and goaltending are the strengths of the Kings. They were 4th this season in goals against and led the NHL allowing only 27 shots on goal per game.
The problem for Los Angeles this season was scoring. They sat 18th with 2.66 goals per game and were a league worst in missed shots at home with 648. Making matters worse is the fact the Kings registered a league worst 375 takeaways.
In short, Los Angeles relies on Johnathan Quick in net and hopes to score enough to sneak into the playoffs. The formula has worked en-route to Staley Cup victories in 2012 and 2014. The team relied on superb goaltending and hard-working, physical defensive play. This season, the lack of offense exposed them.
Down the middle the Kings have depth with Anze Kopitar, one of the most underrated players in the league, Jeff Carter and Tyler Toffoli. Assuming they resign UFA Toffoli, they should be set long term at center.
Left wing has been a spot the Kings need depth in. With Martin Gaborik as their only solid offensive player on that side, and he often plays on the right side as a lefty, their sites will lock on to a left hand shooting forward.
Pavel Zacha has been playing center this past year with the Sarnia Sting, but possesses a shooter’s mentality and isn’t afraid to play in front of the net. With a shoot first mentality and not possessing a true playmaker skill set, a move to the left wing would be ideal for the 18-year old.
With drafting a young player, the waiting game must be played. The good news is the Kings depth on their roster while Zacha develops another year in juniors. His 6’3” 210-pound frame will continue to develop, making him a possible top six power forward.
In his injured plagued debut OHL season he scored 34 points in 37 games with Sarnia. The Czech Republic native played in the 2014 World Junior Championships scoring three goals and two assists, helping his country to a silver medal.
“With the 15th pick in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, the Los Angeles Kings select Pavel Zacha.”
Follow Adam on Twitter @Adam_PHN and you can always reach him at adam.minnick@prohockeynews.com
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