It's do or die time for the Kings as they face off against the San Jose Sharks in their first round match up tonight. The game is at 7:00 PM- which is a small departure from their normal 7:30 start times. They again face elimination, but I have no fear. The Kings have found a way to overcome every obstacle they have faced this season.With the Kings 3rd line- a checking line consisting of some young but amped future stars- taking control of the scoring lately, I can't help but think this has caused significant problems for the Sharks defense. Do they have their best defenders go out against that line at the risk of having the Kings more traditional scoring lines face off against lesser defensive setups? Will Dustin Penner, anchoring the 4th line, actually make it a more dangerous scoring threat like we saw in Game 5? After all, who else can boast about having a top of the line scoring winger on a line traditionally thought of an energy line. Has coach Murray's lineup juggling finally found a great mix that emphasizes balance over star power? Can the Kings win tonight thereby forcing a Game 7 scramble up north.
I hesitate to make a prediction (I'm sure you know who I'm rooting for), but I will tell you this- If this goes to a seventh game the Kings will win the series. And you can take that to the bank.
Below is a video to pump you up.
As much as it kills me to say this... I actually agree. If the Sharks can't close it out tonight... I think the Kings win the series. Niemi plays really well the game after being pulled... so hopefully he plays well tonight. Should be a great game... Go Sharks!
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