No Happy Returns for Carter

EDMONTON, Canada —  Anson Carter returned to the city that brought out the best hockey of his career, but it didn’t help end his slump.

Mired in a goal-scoring drought since being acquired by the Kings, Carter continued to struggle in the Kings’ 3-1 loss Friday to the Edmonton Oilers.

Carter had three shots on goal -- the most he’s had with the Kings -- and played a decent game physically, but his totals since being acquired from the Washington Capitals remain minuscule: no goals, one assist and a minus-five rating in 10 games.

Carter had 25 goals last season with the Oilers and 28 in 2001-02, but he has only 15 this season with the Kings, Capitals and New York Rangers.

“Keep shooting the puck and hopefully catch a break sometime,” Carter said. “Obviously, I’d like to have come out of here with two points. It’s good to be back here, but it’s all business.”

Carter was moved from wing to center on the fourth line for Friday’s game, with Jeff Cowan on his left and Martin Straka on his right.

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Forward Ian Laperriere did not return after the second period because of a bruised right hand.... Although goaltender Roman Cechmanek stopped 29 shots in a decent effort against the Oilers, Cristobal Huet will probably start today against Calgary.