Kings general manager Rob Blake remembers well the vibe surrounding the team's new era last year. With their offense stagnated, Blake and first-year coach John Stevens laid out their plan in a fan forum.
The numbers bear that going into the Kings' regular-season finale Saturday, with their playoff opponent still not decided between the Ducks, Vegas Golden Knights and San Jose Sharks. The Kings lead the NHL with 2.44 goals-against per game, which also would give Jonathan Quick his second Jennings Trophy for fewest goals allowed.
Several staples easily explain the stinginess, namely Quick, Norris Trophy (best defenseman) candidate Drew Doughty and Hart Trophy (MVP) candidate Anze Kopitar, who is also in line for the Selke Trophy for best defensive forward.