Russell Morgan Off-season Additions
Viktor Arvidsson: B+
After being acquired in the offseason for a couple of draft picks, Viktor Arvidsson was looked upon by many to alleviate some of the Kings’ scoring woes. With 25 points in 36 games played so far, that may not have come to fruition. But looking further into the numbers, he’s been just as advertised.
After an extended stint in Covid protocol, Arvidsson came back to play alongside Phillip Danault, generating many scoring chances. The problem is most of those changes aren’t going in the net. I’m not as worried as some when it comes to Viktor. He should continue to shoot the puck as much as possible and start piling up the goals in the second half of the year.
Alex Edler: A
With Arvidsson and Danault, bringing in Alex Edler didn’t come with much fanfare. With his age and the number of games under his belt, many thought that he was destined for more of a platoon role. That wasn’t the case.
Edler’s game was a perfect fit for the LA Kings defensive lineup. He brought veteran leadership and a calm presence to a young, dynamic group of blueliners. His injury was perhaps the most devastating to LA’s roster. Hopefully, he can make it back to the lineup before the season’s end.
Phillip Danault: A+
Phillip Danault has been everything, and more the LA Kings thought he’d be when they signed him to a lucrative six-year deal over the summer. His full 200-foot game is evident each night. Every player that plays on a line with Danault has elevated their game, and we’re seeing that with Trevor Moore right now.
With 22 points in 41 games with the Kings the season, Danault has started to add a little offense to his game. If he continues his elite two-way play throughout the rest of the season, he should be among the players talked about for the Selke Trophy.