LA Kings: Second line is critical to team scoring more goals
By Ryan Sikes
Adrian Kempe
The definition of Adrian Kempe‘s career to this point is “inconsistent.” As a former first-round pick, he hasn’t lived up to expectations, and time is running out for the 24-year-old. Especially as the prospect pool pushes for NHL playing time. At times, Kempe has looked brilliant, and others…well, he’s flat out disappeared. He didn’t score his first goal of the 2019-2020 season until October 30.
The Swedish forward hit a hot streak in December, scoring goals in four out of seven games, including three straight on the tail end. And then, it was more of the same—a few games with no points. Two goals here, one assist there, another long scoreless streak. You get the picture.
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He’s proven capable of scoring 15+ goals and with 20+ assists in the 2017-2018 season. And that was playing an average of 13:20 on-ice time. This past season, he saw a career-high 16:01 on-ice time and failed to take the next step.
The Kings need him closer to the 20 goals, 25 assists range this season.