LA Kings: Three things you must know ahead of matchup with Sharks
By Ryan Sikes
2. Just like LA Kings, the Sharks are still trying to find the right line combinations
The LA Kings are in a similar position as the Sharks these days, meaning they really have one consistent line to expect points from. San Jose’s first line of Evander Kane, Logan Couture, and Kevin Labanc has combined to score 21 points, half of the team’s top six point-producers.
Sharks head coach Bob Boughner has made the message loud and clear for his players, indicating he’s not afraid to reduce a guy’s minutes if he feels that player isn’t playing up to snuff.
“It’s not meant to be mean or cruel or anything like that,” Boughner said. “What it’s meant to be is, yes, you’re sending a message, but I’m going to play the best guys, the guys that are going and that give us the best chance to win. If you’re not one of those guys, you’ve got to look in the mirror and ask yourself why.”
From guys like Kane, who as noted is a major contributor, down to Timo Meier playing on the third line, Boughner has fluctuated each player’s minutes in an effort to get the right line combinations and ultimately two points in the standings.
Don’t be surprised if the initial lines on Tuesday don’t look the same at the end of the game.