KINGS-DUCKS REPORT
Having given Luc Robitaille a car, a big-screen television, some Jet Skis and various trinkets for his exploits over the past two seasons, the Kings came up with something new Wednesday night for his 600th NHL assist and 1,000th point as a King.
Robitaille was presented with a trip to Napa Valley and winery tour by helicopter by the Kings, a silver stick from the players and crystal trophy from the league.
His 600th assist came on Oct. 7 in Buffalo, the 1,000th point as a King against St. Louis on Oct. 11.
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Today and Friday will mark the first two-day respite between games that the Kings have enjoyed since the season began on Oct. 6 at Washington.
The Kings have the toughest trail of the NHL’s early going, with 12 road games among their first 16, including two trips to the Eastern time zone and one to the Central along the way.
Their mission, Coach Andy Murray said, is to survive the 16 games in no worse than eighth place in the Western Conference, the final spot that qualifies for the playoffs.
“Just to keep our heads above water,†Murray said.
That’s particularly difficult in the West, where 10 of the 15 teams had records above .500 when Wednesday began.
By contrast, only five of the East’s 15 were above .500.
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The Kings have outscored opponents, 19-8, in first periods over their 11 games.
They have outshot foes, 113-86.
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