71.   The Kings have a roster spot open after sending left winger Bill Huard to minor-league Lowell, Mass., on Tuesday.

72.   The Kings have back-to-back games this week with San Jose, a team they swept last week but remains ahead of them in the standings.

73.   The Kings have only one win in their past six games.

74.   The Kings have plenty of excellent prospects in their system, but it is doubtful any of them will be ready to make significant impacts next season.

75.   The Kings have seemed immune to the pressures they admit now beat them in the previous three seasons against the Lakers.

76.   The Kings have the potential finally to rid themselves of the perpetual-loser tag hung on them over the years.

77.   The Kings have to find a goaltender to take over for injured Stephane Fiset.

78.   The Kings have to show discipline.

79.   The Lakers extended their home winning streak to nine games and for the moment dispelled the hex the Kings have on them.

80.   The king has his own wry riposte.