Eric Stephens

LOS ANGELES — When the Los Angeles Kings needed to flush another blowout by the Edmonton Oilers and respond with their best game of the series, they did precisely that in Game 4.

The Kings have yet to score in 11 opportunities with the man advantage in this first-round series.

The Oilers defeated the Kings 4-3 in Game 5 on Wednesday to knock them out of the first round of the playoffs for the third straight season. To add insult to injury, the Oilers have gotten the job done in one fewer game each year.

After a third consecutive first-round playoff exit, it's time for some accountability in Los Angeles.

EDMONTON – A playoff stay of five games was not what the Los Angeles Kings had in mind. There are family vacations that last longer.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Even though the Los Angeles Kings' acquisition of Pierre-Luc Dubois last July sparked some doubt, not many would have predicted the possibility of a separation less than 12 months into an eight-year contract.

The Sharks have the best odds to land Celebrini in Tuesday's draft lottery, and they sure could use him.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Sitting together at a new conference to ensure that the messaging was consistent, Los Angeles Kings general manager Rob Blake

Celebrini, a former member of the Jr. Sharks, isn't being presumptive about his future, but the Sharks aren't leaving much doubt.

Will the Ducks look to the blue line with their initial draft pick?