1.   Although the Kings were playing Tuesday without top forwards Ziggy Palffy and Jozef Stumpel because of injuries, the most glaring absence was the defense.

2.   Among top forwards, there are durability doubts about Joe Nieuwendyk and Gary Roberts.

3.   Either way, he expects to keep Langenbrunner among the top six forwards.

4.   For the first time, coach Bob Hartley used his two top forwards, Peter Forsberg and Joe Sakic, on the same line late in the third period.

5.   He does it all, playing hard offensively, finishing his shots and also acting as a top defensive forward.

6.   He is matched constantly against the top opposing forwards, such as Eric Lindros of Philadelphia and Mario Lemieux of Pittsburgh.

7.   Jamal Mashburn is one of the top five small forwards in the game.

8.   Lehtinen last season finished third in the voting for the Selke Trophy, given to the top defensive forward.

9.   Murphy said he has been fortunate to play with some top forwards over the years.

10.   Nelson also called Thomas a top defensive forward during the preseason.