What's Happening?
Artemi Panarin, a 34-year-old left winger, is set to make his debut for the Los Angeles Kings in a game against the Vegas Golden Knights. Panarin was acquired from the New York Rangers in exchange for forward Liam Greentree and two conditional draft picks.
Known for his offensive prowess, Panarin has scored 321 goals and 606 assists over 804 career games. His addition is expected to bolster the Kings' offense, which currently ranks 31st out of 32 teams in goals scored. Panarin is also anticipated to enhance the team's power play, which ranks 29th in the league. The Kings are currently in fifth place in the Pacific Division, trailing the Golden Knights by eight points and the Anaheim Ducks by three points for the final Western Conference wild-card spot.
Why It's Important?
Panarin's arrival in Los Angeles is significant as it addresses the team's need for offensive improvement. His ability to score and assist could be pivotal in the Kings' push for a playoff spot. The Kings' current standing in the Pacific Division highlights the urgency for a turnaround, and Panarin's experience and skill set are seen as crucial to achieving this. Additionally, his role in the power play could lead to more scoring opportunities, potentially improving the team's overall performance. The trade also reflects the Kings' strategic moves to strengthen their roster in a competitive division.
What's Next?
The Kings will face the Golden Knights in the second game of a home-and-home series, with the first game resulting in a 4-1 loss for Los Angeles. The outcome of this game could impact the Kings' playoff aspirations. Key players like Drew Doughty and Darcy Kuemper, who recently returned from the Olympics, are expected to play, adding depth to the lineup. The Golden Knights, beginning a five-game road trip, will be without some players due to Olympic commitments, which could influence the game's dynamics. The Kings will need to capitalize on these absences to gain crucial points in the standings.
