Western Conference Semi-Final Preview: Sharks/Kings

Via: lakingsinsider.com

5. Los Angeles Kings vs. 6. San Jose Sharks
Season Series: 2-1-1 Kings
Round two of the Battle for California kicks off tonight, as the Kings and the Sharks meet for the second time in the last three seasons. San Jose won the last playoff meeting 4-3 in 2011, but the Kings have won five straight series since then as the underdog seed, an NHL record. Oh, and they won the Stanley Cup as well, something the current core of the Sharks cannot claim. It's going to be a series of conflicting styles, as the Kings take a very physical, defensive approach as compared to the speed and offense of the Sharks. San Jose has has plenty of time to rest after easily sweeping the Canucks in four games, while LA had to endure a very rough, tight, six game series against the Blues. The Kings are going to need to step up the offense, as they scored the fewest goals of any team to make it into the second round. The key for the Sharks will be adjusting to a much tighter defensive team then they faced in round one, and they'll have to avoid getting frustrated when the puck doesn't go in so easily for them A huge factor in this series may be home ice advantage, something that the Kings haven't had in more than two decades, and both teams have been excellent on home ice this season.

Key Players:
Kings: Mike Richards (5 points)
Kings: Jeff Carter (3 goals)
Kings: Jonathan Quick (1.58gaa, .944 save percentage)
Sharks: Joe Pavelski (4 goals, 4 assists)
Sharks: Logan Couture (8 points)
Sharks: Antti Niemi (1.86 gaa, .937 save percentage)

Prediction: 4-3 Kings
This is a series that really could go either way. San Jose is clearly the more offensive team, but the Kings have a few guys that can hit the back of the net too. The Kings have the edge defensively, but the Sharks boast a strong forecheck and good penalty killing. In the end, it may come down to the goaltenders, both of whom are recent Stanley Cup champions. The edge has to go to Quick, the reigning Conn Smythe trophy winner, but it Niemi can shut down the Kings attack, they will be in trouble.