Training camp starts this week, but I've decided to get the jump on things and predict how I think the Kings will look when the season opens October 3 in Minnesota.
Brown-Kopitar-Williams
•Why break up a trio that has performed so admirably over the last two seasons? If they have trouble scoring early though like they did in the playoffs, it might be time for a shake-up.
Toffoli-Richards-Carter
•Toffoli proved in his call-up last season and throughout the 2013 playoffs that he is ready for the big time. He has a very legitimate shot at the Calder this season. With teams having to be wary of the Western Conference's best goal scorer Carter, Toffoli will see less coverage than he otherwise might. Don't be shocked if he scores 30 goals in his first full season in the NHL.
Frattin-Stoll-Lewis
•Sorry King, the new guy acquired for Bernier is bumping you off this line. Frattin will be an offensive threat to go along with the defensive stalwarts that Stoll and Lewis have become together.
King-Clifford-Nolan
•Big and strong, this will be one of the nastiest trios in the NHL to play against. And all three do have the capability of potting a few goals if given the chance.
Doughty-Mitchell
•I really hope Mitchell makes his return. If not, obviously the defense gets re-arranged.
Voynov-Regher
•Slava will have to play a little more defense as he loses Scuds as his partner, but I think he is mature enough to play both ends of the ice.
Greene-Muzzin
•A great shut-down pair that should only get better as Muzzin gets more experience.
Fraser and Martinez will provide decent alternatives in the pressbox if anybody gets hurt or needs a benching to inspire their own performances. I don't think Carcillo and Shultz will make the team. I'm not sure what will happen with Ellerby.
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