The Kings (11-6-0) left town Monday morning to begin a four-game trip Tuesday against the Sabres in Buffalo. They also face the New York Islanders, New Jersey Devils and New York Rangers. As of Monday, the Rangers were the only team with a winning record. The Kings muzzled the struggling Sabres (3-15-1) during a 2-0 shutout by goaltender Jonathan Quick last Thursday at Staples Center. Quick recorded his first shutout of the season and the 26th of his career, six behind all-time club leader Rogie Vachon.

The Kings’ power play has clicked six times in the last 20 chances with the man-advantage for a 30 percent success rate. Mike Richards has points in four consecutive games (three goals, five assists). He also has 11 points (five goals, six assists) in his last eight games. Jarret Stoll (upper body) has resumed skating, but Mike Carter (foot) isn’t expected to return to the ice any time soon. In addition, Kyle Clifford suffered a head injury in the Kings’ victory Saturday over the Vancouver Canucks. The Sabres, last in the NHL, are winless at home this season (0-8-1).