Purcell’s opportunity

i-4e36a8d794257fb26588490464dfa49b-purcell1230.jpg

Could it be that the key to the Kings’ season — or at least the first part of it — will be Teddy Purcell? Given a couple recent developments, it’s not such a ridiculous argument.

First, there’s the issue of Jarret Stoll’s arthritis. Stoll was back on the ice today, and has said that he intends to be ready for opening night, but should circumstances change, the Kings would have to start looking at a backup option. It probably wouldn’t be Michal Handzus, since Terry Murray seems to prefer trying a third line of Frolov, Handzus and Simmonds.

So, then what? It’s very possible that Oscar Moller would end up at center, with Dustin Brown on his right wing. That opens a spot for…drumroll please…Teddy Purcell.

At the start of camp, I wouldn’t have put much weight behind that idea. Purcell has yet to prove that he can be a consistent NHL scorer, and has frustrated coaches at times with his play. Based on what we’ve seen so far in camp, however, Purcell looks different. He has added some muscle and, more importantly, is playing an all-around more aggressive game. Murray praised Purcell’s effort during Tuesday’s exhibition game as the best game Purcell had played for him.

Or perhaps, even if Stoll is ready to go for the first game, Purcell could beat out Moller for a top-six spot? Or do you think there’s a better option for the Kings?

Facebook Twitter Plusone Digg Reddit Stumbleupon Tumblr Email