Los Angeles Kings Recall Samuel Helenius During Season Slump

The Los Angeles Kings have made a significant move by recalling Samuel Helenius from the Ontario Reign. This decision comes as the Kings find themselves in a troubling stretch, having lost four consecutive games. The team has struggled not only with their performance but also with being physically outmatched in these contests. Helenius, a hulking forward, brings a much-needed physical presence to the lineup.

Helenius’ Impact on the Kings

While Helenius has only recorded three points (one goal) and holds a -2 rating this season, his physicality is noteworthy. He has accumulated 80 hits, averaging slightly under three hits per game. Although his offensive contributions may not ignite the Kings’ cold scoring engine, his presence on the ice is expected to deter opponents from bullying the team. Despite averaging just 8:37 of ice time this season, Helenius embodies the attitude of resilience that the Kings desperately need.

Comparing Helenius to Tanner Jeannot

This recall raises questions about the Kings’ strategy, particularly regarding Tanner Jeannot. Jeannot is known for his rugged style and physicality, yet he possesses better scoring instincts than Helenius. However, the Kings opted for Helenius, even with Jeannot already fulfilling an ‘enforcer’ role. Jeannot has struggled recently, going 20 games without a goal and managing only a single assist, resulting in a -8 rating. This situation prompts speculation about Trevor Lewis’s status in the lineup.

Trevor Lewis’ Role in the Lineup

Despite concerns about Lewis’s declining performance, it seems unlikely that he will be removed from the lineup. The Kings have consistently overlooked Lewis’s diminishing contributions on the ice. Historically, Lewis has been a versatile player, even seeing time on the top line under former coach Darryl Sutter. However, his effectiveness has waned significantly over the years.

Future Lineup Considerations

With Helenius joining the roster, it appears that Lewis, Helenius, and Jeannot will all remain in the lineup. The Kings may need to make a scratch, likely from a 12-6 setup, with Brandt Clarke being a potential candidate. This decision has sparked frustration among Kings fans, as Clarke, the highest-scoring defenseman on the team, has seen his performance drop off after a strong start to the season. Increased ice time can often mask mistakes, but one error in 20 shifts is less noticeable than one in 10 shifts.

Franchise Strategy and Future Outlook

The Kings are committed to a roster they believe can secure victories, regardless of Clarke’s recent struggles. The ongoing evaluation of player performance is crucial as the team navigates this challenging phase. The recall of Helenius is likely a strategic move to bolster the bottom six, emphasizing a mentality of toughness and resilience. While Helenius may lack elite hockey skills, his presence signifies a determination not to be pushed around.

Conclusion

As the Kings face a pivotal moment in their season, the addition of Samuel Helenius could provide the spark they need to turn things around. The combination of physicality and determination may help the team regain its competitive edge. Fans will be watching closely to see how this decision impacts the Kings’ performance in the coming games.