Despite the roster changes the Kings have made since they won the Stanley Cup in 2012 and again in 2014, despite shuffling key pieces on defense — which still results in some nervous moments — and despite occasionally falling into profound scoring slumps, a crucial piece of their essential nature has remained unchanged.
When they face a challenge and need to elevate their game, they simply find ways to do it.
With a chance to vault past the Ducks and recapture the Pacific Division lead Thursday, the Kings responded with opportunistic scoring and the defensive diligence that was so important in their two championship runs.