The view from Denver

DENVER POST

Terry Frei: Avalanche gets only 10 shots on goal in 3-1 loss to Los Angeles

“Conventional wisdom said that: a) the Kings, fighting just to make the playoffs and have a chance to win their third NHL title in four years, had a lot to play for; and that, b) the Avalanche was ripe for an emotional letdown after beating the Anaheim Ducks the night before and then Saturday afternoon discovering its playoff chances officially were dead because of Winnipeg’s 5-4 matinee win over Vancouver.

Conventional wisdom got its part right.”

Terry Frei: Pepsi Center without Avs and Nuggets postseason for first time

“In a bizarre twist, two players connected to the Avalanche’s ill-fated 1999 acquisition of winger Theo Fleury from Calgary were on the ice Saturday night at the Staples Center.

Both of them — defenseman Robyn Regehr, 34, and center Jarret Stoll, 32 — play for the Kings.”

PUCK DADDY

Josh Cooper: Kings finding right fourth line mix at right time

“Kings coach Darryl Sutter does not see his fourth line as a space filler. Oh no way. The group is maybe a lesser version of his third line – a trio that can win face offs, check, cycle, play defense and at the odd time, score a big goal.

“They’re out there to have an identity and help your team win,” Sutter said. “Biggest thing you take out of your fourth line is whether you win or lose.”

In a bizarre-o world way, as goes Kyle Clifford, as go the Kings in #sutterlogic.”

SB NATION: MILE HIGH HOCKEY

Cole D Hamilton: With Nothing to Play For, the Avalanche Didn’t

“Earlier this afternoon when the Winnipeg Jets beat the Vancouver Canucks, the Colorado Avalanche’s slim playoff hopes evaporated as they were officially, mathematically eliminated from playoff contention. From here on out the Avalanche are playing for future ice time, contracts, draft position, and pride. Did we mention they’re playing for pride? Altitude sports would like you to know that the Avalanche are playing for pride. Pride, pride, pride.”

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