Los Angeles Kings' Struggles and Leadership's Perspective
The Los Angeles Kings have found themselves in a rough patch, losing 12 of their last 14 games. Despite this slump, they maintain a position fourth in the Pacific Division and currently hold the first wild card spot for the playoffs from the Western Conference. However, the road ahead doesn't promise immediate relief, with seven of their next eight games scheduled away from home.
Head coach Todd McLellan, now in his fifth season with the Kings, has faced scrutiny amidst the team's recent performance. Nevertheless, he has secured a contract extension through the 2024-25 season, indicating the organization's confidence in his long-term vision for the team. General Manager Rob Blake has also expressed support for McLellan during this challenging period, signaling stability within the team's leadership.
Underlying Numbers Versus Performance
The Kings' struggles on the ice contrast with some positive indicators off it. Their underlying numbers suggest that their performance should be stronger than what recent results reflect. This discrepancy between statistics and outcomes adds a layer of complexity to the team's current predicament, hinting at potential areas of improvement that are not immediately apparent from their win-loss record alone.
Team captain Anze Kopitar has emphasized the importance of player performance, underscoring the notion that coaching can only go so far. It is ultimately up to the players to execute on the ice. Defenseman Drew Doughty echoed this sentiment, calling for a collective effort and selflessness among his teammates. The belief within the locker room seems to be that while tactical adjustments and motivation from the coaching staff are crucial, the responsibility for turning things around lies with the players themselves.
Recent Homestand and Playoff History
The Kings' recent four-game homestand concluded with a disappointing 1-2-1 record, adding to the urgency for a turnaround as the postseason approaches. The team has a history of success in the playoffs, having made the cut in each of the past two seasons. This track record suggests that the Kings have the potential to rally and secure their place in the playoffs once again, provided they can rediscover their form swiftly.
Accountability and Effort
Coach McLellan has taken ownership of the team's lackluster performances, stating, "I'm responsible for this. 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." He acknowledges the stark contrast between the team's strong start to the season and its current struggles, placing the onus on himself to find a solution.
McLellan elaborated on his approach to rectifying the situation: "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." His commitment to adapt and motivate his team reflects a proactive stance in addressing the challenges they face.
When discussing the disparity between the Kings' analytics and their win column, McLellan pointed out, "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 acknowledgment highlights the frustration of underperforming despite seemingly favorable data.
Kopitar and Doughty both stressed the importance of individual and collective effort. Kopitar stated, "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." Doughty added, "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 further emphasized teamwork over individual prowess: "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." This team-first mentality will be critical as the Kings aim to overcome their current adversity and strive for success in the latter part of the season