They’re Making a Forward Push

A playoff race is a character test for every player, but especially for the Kings’ top six forwards.

Coach Andy Murray has sought more production and passion from his first two lines on the theory they can make the difference against teams such as the Columbus Blue Jackets, who can match the Kings’ work ethic but not their talent.

“Ziggy [Palffy] and the skill guys have to be an advantage,� said Murray, who double-shifted Palffy often Thursday. “It’s been more inconsistent that we would have liked. I think Bryan Smolinski has been pretty steady. Adam Deadmarsh is pretty tough to evaluate [because of his hand injury]. Jozef Stumpel is just back from an injury. For us to be good, those guys have to be more consistent than they’ve been.�

Murray predicted Luc Robitaille would have a big game after seeing Robitaille’s determined expression Thursday morning. To Robitaille, his sense of purpose was clear.

“We have to win,� he said. “I know for a fact that if you don’t prepare and play your best this time of year, you’re not going to win. These kind of teams play tight. We can’t afford to tie, tie, tie. We have to win. . . .

“We have enough veterans on this team that we know what we have to do. We’ve been in playoff mode for a month, but we’ve gotten to this point and we have to pick it up. I’m ready. I want to make the playoffs.�

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Center Eric Belanger returned to the lineup after sitting out two games because of a bruised shoulder. He replaced Steve Kelly on the fourth line. . . . Defenseman Aaron Miller (sprained wrist) tried to handle the puck and shoot Thursday morning but couldn’t do much. “If we have him back before the end of the regular season, I’d be surprised,� Murray said.