Faceoff a Winner Here

Perhaps an overlooked aspect of the Kings’ turnaround this season has been their success on faceoffs. Led by centers Ian Laperriere, Jozef Stumpel, Yanic Perreault, Ray Ferraro and Nathan LaFayette, the Kings have won more than their share of faceoffs and hope to continue doing so right into the playoffs.

“We’re a pretty solid faceoff team and hopefully down the stretch we will be stronger,” said Laperriere, who has won 24 of 38 draws over the last three games. “Winning the faceoff is important on the power play, five-on-five or any situations because you have control of the puck.”

*

Ferraro did not travel to San Jose because of swelling in his left knee, and left wing Matt Johnson stayed in Los Angeles because of a biceps injury.

TONIGHT

vs. San Jose

* 7:30

* Fox Sports

West

Site--San Jose Arena.

Radio--XTRA 690 (AM).

Records--Kings 32-25-11; Sharks 27-35-7.

Record vs. Sharks--2-1.

Update--The Kings lost at San Jose last week, 2-1, and will play the Sharks again at the Great Western Forum on Thursday. Goaltender Jamie Storr, beaten by the Sharks last week, is expected to start tonight and has a .932 save percentage on the road. San Jose has lost three in a row since defeating the Kings. Rookie Patrick Marleau has six points in his last 10 games. Center Jeff Friesen leads the Sharks with 23 goals.

LONNIE WHITE