The latest round of power rankings are out and for the Los Angeles Kings there wasn't much movement in this week's edition. However, based on some of the write-ups there should be optimism that the Kings could go on a run.
ESPN
Current Ranking: 11
Previous Ranking: 11
On ESPN, the Kings remained unchanged as they sit just outside the Top 10 at 11th overall. For each team, the writers noted one thing that the Kings should be thankful for and they are right to note the lack of travel.
They began the season mostly on the road but have a pretty good stretch with no travel or minimal travel which has helped them keep pace in the Pacific Division as they have gone 5-2-1 at home this season. The question is can the Kings continue to remain near the top of the division as they are the only team in the Top 12 of the power rankings with a points percentage less than 60%.
With four home games in the next six games, they have a chance to go on a bit of a run.
Bleacher Report
Current Ranking: 11
Previous Ranking: 11
Similar to ESPN, the power rankings on Bleacher Report have the Kings just outside the Top 10. It also highlighted the extend period on the West Coast with the only road games in San Jose and Anaheim through the first week of December.
NHL.com
Current Ranking: 12
Previous Ranking: 11
The power rankings on NHL.com were the only one that dropped the Los Angeles Kings as they went from 11 last week down to 12. Staff writer David Satriano highlighted Anze Kopitar's performance and noted that Kopitar continues to play at a high level:
"Anze Kopitar is again showing why he has been a perennial Selke finalist as best defensive forward in the NHL. Kopitar is a four-time finalist and been a top-five finisher seven times in the past 12 years. He not only leads the Kings in points (21; five goals, 16 assists) but tops the team in face-off percentage (56.8) and is top 10 in the NHL in face-offs taken and face-offs won."
If the Kings hope to stay atop the division and reach the playoffs again, they are going to need to continue to get top production from their captain.