Alec Martinez’s return from injury should help smooth out this blemish going forward.
Even more good news arrived on Wednesday, as Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported that the defenseman has signed a six-year, $24 million extension with the team:
Alec Martinez 6 yrs, $24M
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) December 3, 2014 As a mobile and confident blueliner, Martinez will provide great value and breathe life into a back end that has frequently skated in circles rather than carving a path to the opposition’s end this season.
Breakout
Through 25 games, head coach Darryl Sutter’s club has been at its worst in the first period. Its modest plus-one goal differential in the opening frame doesn’t stack up to the plus-six the Kings have recorded in both the second and third periods.
To demonstrate the importance of a good start, consider this: L.A. is 3-7-2 when the other team scores first. When the Kings score first, they’re 10-0-3.
Such a glaring contrast is the result of the team’s sloppy puck possession—especially from the blue line. Too often, the Kings will stave off the opposition only to cough the puck up again because the defense can’t find the right outlet.
On Saturday, the Kings faced the deep and talented Chicago Blackhawks. On Tuesday, they took on another stalwart in the Boston Bruins.
Note the glaring contrast in starts from a raw Corsi perspective:
It’s no coincidence that the better outing came with Martinez in the fold. He’s comfortable with the puck on his stick and makes quick decisions as forecheckers bear down on him.
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Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Kings
