BRIAN BOYLE

This season: 8 games, 4 goals, 1 assist, plus-4 rating.

Positives: It’s hard to argue with the raw numbers. Four goals in eight games is nothing to sneeze at, and Boyle showed, at least in a limited tryout, that he has the skill to play at the NHL level. His size should make him a valuable asset going forward, particularly at the center position.

Negatives: His demotion back to Manchester came as something of a surprise, and came with a vague, somewhat mysterious explanation about him needing to develop better habits and learn how to play on a winning team. After his eight-game stint in February, Boyle never returned to the Kings.

Looking ahead: Sometimes it’s hard to figure what the Kings are doing with Boyle. They make him a defenseman, then they switch him back to center. They bring him up from Manchester, then they send him back after he scores four goals in eight games. Fortunately, Boyle seems to be a bright guy with a good attitude. He needs to use his size and be a more physical presence, but it’s very easy to see him having a future with the Kings, as soon as next season.

Contract situation: Signed through 2008-09 (cap number of $835,000 next season).