They were losing, and most times it wasn't even close.
The optimism generated by a new season quickly vanished, replaced by gloom and a baffling inability to score goals.
While this applies to the Ducks, whose struggles were the talk of the NHL until they dramatically reversed course after the Christmas break, the Kings also suffered from an early-season malaise that tested their resolve.
After missing the playoffs last season as defending champions, the Kings continued to struggle as they lost their first three games, scored twice in that span and allowed 12 goals, leaving fans to wonder if they'd reach the playoffs, let alone make another run at the Stanley Cup.