Ryan Smyth and Kings

I know that the NHL does not get as much national attention as others sports that are featured on this blog. And that is basically because hockey is not quite as popular as other sports in this country. But that doesn't mean we are not going to cover it.

The NHL has been off to a great start. Some of the normals like Detroit and Philly are up in the top as usual, but also teams like Tampa Bay and St. Louis are off to great starts. One team that had a great year last year and is set up to be a contender this year, is the Kings.

The Kings have all the tools to make a run at the Cup. And I will show you why. First off lets start with the forwards. And none better to start off with than Ryan Smyth. A couple nights ago he played his 1000 game in the National Hockey League and also scored a goal on that night. He is what you need in the playoffs. He has grit and skill and will be a big asset for the Kings late in the season. The captain Dustin Brown is also a gritty, smart player and those type of players shine in the playoffs. There is also tons of skill in Kopitar.

Now from the D, we have the likes of Willie Mitchell and Rob Scuderi, which brings experience. The playoffs are all about experience and keeping your composure. Then you have two of the best young defensemen in league, with Jack Johnson and Drew Doughty. Doughty already has contributed to a Olympic Gold medal and he is under 23 years old.

Now everyone knows that goaltending is always the final factor. If your goalie gets hot in the playoffs, then you have a reall good shot at going far. Quick is best young goalie in the league and has the potential to definitely get hot in the playoffs.

The Kings are not the most fancy team in the world, but they work hard and are physical. The play solid defense and have a great goalie. Those attributes are a must for a team to go far in the playoffs. Like any other team designed for the playoffs, they must stay healthy. Look for the Kings to make a run this year.