NHL Los Angeles Kings

5 Bold Predictions for the Los Angeles Kings in 2014-15

5 Bold Predictions for the Los Angeles Kings in 2014-15

Los Angeles Kings Dustin Brown New York Rangers
USA Today Sports-Richard Mackson

After winning two Stanley Cups in three seasons, all eyes will be on the Los Angeles Kings as they look to become the first team since the Red Wings in 1997 and 1998 to win consecutive Stanley Cups. There are still question marks, but they will be answered by the time the regular season is over.

5. Marian Gaborik Will Stay Healthy

Marian Gaborik
Robert Mackson- USA Today Sports

5. Marian Gaborik Will Stay Healthy

Marian Gaborik
Robert Mackson- USA Today Sports

The Slovakian sniper has a new contract in hand and came up aces in the Kings’ Stanley Cup run. Having said that, Gaborik has a history of being injured, which will be just that this season: history. Look for Gaborik to play at least 75 games and lead the Kings in goal scoring while giving them speed and skill to complement their gritty, defensive lineup.

4. Mike Richards Will Bounce Back

Mike Richards
Mike DiNovo-USA Today Sports

4. Mike Richards Will Bounce Back

Mike Richards
Mike DiNovo-USA Today Sports

After having a subpar regular season and struggling mightily in the playoffs, there was talk the Kings may rid themselves of the former Flyers’ captain. Now that he's back, look for a typical Mike Richards season where he bounces back offensively, plays a solid defensive game and brings the hurt physically.

3. Drew Doughty Will Win the Norris Trophy

Drew Doughty
Robert Mackson-USA Today Sports

3. Drew Doughty Will Win the Norris Trophy

Drew Doughty
Robert Mackson-USA Today Sports

Doughty has been knocking on the Norris Trophy door for a few years now, but will finally break through and be named league’s top defenseman. Look for the 24-year-old star to continue the amazing all-around performance he had in last year’s playoffs as he excelled in all facets of the game in helping the Kings capture the 2014 Stanley Cup.

2. The Team Will Finish Second in the Pacific Division

Perry Kopitar
Getty Images

2. The Team Will Finish Second in the Pacific Division

Los Angeles Kings v Anaheim Ducks - Game Seven
Getty Images

The re-tooled Anaheim Ducks will finish ahead of the Kings in the standings for the third consecutive year as Southern California will have two bona fide Stanley Cup contenders. Having said that, this squad understands the real season begins after 82 games and proved that last year in the seven-game series win over the Ducks.

1. The Team Will Repeat as Stanley Cup Champions

Los Angeles Kings Victory Parade and Rally
Getty Images

1. The Team Will Repeat as Stanley Cup Champions

Los Angeles Kings Victory Parade and Rally
Getty Images

No team has won back–to-back Cups in over 15 years and that will change this season. Despite the improvements of other Western Conference powerhouses, there is no reason to doubt the Kings winning their second consecutive Stanley Cup and third in four years. Remember, this team was down 3-0 in the first round last year -- history doesn’t faze anyone in that locker room.

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