Advertisement

Weight lifted for Doughty, Kopitar; Brown misses practice

Share

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

Drew Doughty knew he would score a goal sometime. But after a Norris trophy-runner-up performance last season and heightened expectations for him and for the Kings this season, his inability to score was weighing on his mind.

That burden was lifted Saturday, when he scored the fifth goal in the Kings’ 5-1 victory over the New York Islanders. That extended their winning streak to six and set a club record by starting the season 8-0-0 at home.

Advertisement

“It was huge to finally get that goal,” Doughty said after a brief practice Sunday and before the team’s flight to San Jose for Monday’s game against the Sharks.

“I know I’m expected to put up some points and to finally be able to do that builds my confidence back up again, and hopefully they keep coming.”

Anze Kopitar scored twice, his first multi-goal game of the season, as the Kings improved to 12-3. Their 12 wins and 24 points through 15 games are the most in club history.

Kopitar, who led the Kings last season with 34 goals, acknowledged he was concerned about his low goal total but was consoled by his steady number of assists and the team’s success as a whole.

“It’s really the team effort and the team that’s doing well,” said Kopitar, who has six goals and 16 points. “That’s enough for me. We just want to keep the same thing going.”

Team captain Dustin Brown was permitted to miss Sunday’s practice for personal reasons but rejoined the team in time for the flight to San Jose. Brayden Schenn took Brown’s spot in practice alongside Kopitar and Scott Parse.

Advertisement

‘A little change,’ said Schenn, who has been scratched for the past four games. ‘I’m sure it was just a one-day thing but it was a change and a little excitement, I guess.’

Schenn can play one more game before his pro contract kicks in, and the Kings seem content to continue to carry him as a spare forward for now.

Kings Coach Terry Murray said goaltender Jonathan Bernier will start on Monday and that Bernier and Jonathan Quick will see action as the schedule intensifies with a home game on Wednesday and a trip to Buffalo, Boston, Ottawa and Montreal.

More later at www.latimes.com/sports

Helene Elliott

Advertisement