This year started much the way as every year started with the Kings getting off to a turtle like pace in wins.  Well, let me rephrase that.  Other years were at a turtle pace.  This season was non-existent, losing the first 7 games.  To make matters worse, the first 5 games were against the Eastern teams.  Why is this a big deal?  The Kings normally do well against the East.  You know it is bad when Remi's Habs dominate the KIngs (it must be the Trump factor).  Last season a total of 13 games were lost to the Eastern opponents.  At this stage, the Queens have lost more games to the Eastern teams than the entire previous season. If That trend continues, it may crush any hopes of any run into the playoffs.  It could even be enough to douse any hopes of just making.  Much like Wile E Coyote and the Roadrunner, the anvil seems to be the King's crown when meeting up with the East.  

 

 One would have thought with such a dismal start, the club would be looking at positioning itself for a good draft pick, but that is where you are wrong. Managing to pull off wins in the next 6, they rapidly put themselves into a playoff picture again.  Sitting 15th overall and currently holding a wildcard spot, the team has been winning off and on.  Two here, three there, then one while holding games in hand.  However, the 15 losses to the eastern conference is very discerning.   .  

 

Management's expectation is the same as every year:  "Squeak into the Playoff" & see if we can create havoc. This year's team looks to be the weakest. GM Chuck has gone into the season sporting very little confidence in success or desire to improve for this year.  It is highly doubtful he will make any moves that will be beneficial for this year.  Instead management is looking at a few up and coming pieces that may bolster next season's roster.   

 

Some of the youthful players looking to get a boost next year may be Marco Rossi, who is up from .49 to .84 points per game. Gabe Vilardi, who is up from .76 to .91 points per game.   Alex Laferriere who has managed to get to a .61 points per game.  With the Stone Wall (Joseph Woll) playing a little better .... AND Helle leading the NHL, It looks like the tending tandem is locked and loaded. 

 

 

In Case anyone is interested.  I will again be holding the Annual TUFHL Bracket Challenge for the TUFHL playoffs.  Everyone is welcome to participate.  Since I have already traded a pick, this year will be just for fun.  There will be no prize, just bragging rights.  It is pretty self explanatory but it is rushed due to the crunch time of playoff games.  You only have about a day to get your picks in.  So as we get closer to the playoffs and what the matchups are looking to be, you may want to start thinking about who to pick.  Thanks