In the grand scheme of things, the Los Angeles Kings’ Stanley Cup run was powered by Jonathan Quick, Drew Doughty, Dustin Brown and Anze Kopitar.
Still, depth players often make the difference between good and great teams during the slog that is an 82-game regular season.
With that in mind, here are some players whose production could go either way.
Dustin Penner - Mr. Pancakes waffled for years only to finally apply his size and skill during the playoffs. Perhaps a one-year deal will keep him hungry.
Jeff Carter - He helped the Kings take off in his limited time in Los Angeles. Will greater familiarity bring more production or mere indifference?
Simon Gagne - An outstanding sniper when he’s healthy - which is rare.
Justin Williams - Are his Gagne-like injury issues truly in the past? He managed to play every game last season.
Jonathan Bernier - Will Jonathan Quick have a seasoned backup - and at least a decent threat for playing time if he struggles - or will Bernier be traded?
Slava Voynov - The 22-year-old’s rise was part of the reason why the Kings felt comfortable trading away Jack Johnson. Expectations are likely to rise next season.
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