Although it has not been made official yet, several news outlets, including TSN and the Los Angeles Times, are reporting that Los Angeles Kings forward Simon Gagne will be inserted into Monday’s lineup when the Kings host Game 3 of the 2012 Stanley Cup Final.
Gagne, who has played in just 34 games this season, has not suited up since December 26th because of a concussion. Darren Dreger of TSN reported on Twitter that Gagne would play, likely in place of fourth-liner Brad Richardson.
This is a bit of shocking news when you consider that the Kings are 2-0 in their series with the New Jersey Devils and that the team has lost just twice during their remarkable postseason run. However, head coach Darryl Sutter could be looking for a little extra scoring punch by adding Gagne, a two-time 40-goal scorer, into the mix.
Despite their dominant run, the Kings’ power play is 6-for-77 in the playoffs and hasn’t scored in five games. Gagne is definitely an offensive weapon that could be used in man-advantage situations, but is it worth tampering with a lineup that has been so hot?
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Your Quote: “This is a bit of shocking news when you consider that the Kings are 2-0 in their series with the New Jersey Devils and that the team has lost just twice during their remarkable postseason run.”
There is nothing shocking about Gange playing at all. He only played about 35 games this season, which is short of 41.
41 games played enables you to get your name on the Stanley Cup and a beautiful ring.
There is another exception to the rule, you must contribute in the playoffs at least one game to get your name on the Stanley Cup and a beautiful ring.
Gange is now recovered from his concussion, and can now play. I think he wants to play and get his name on the cup.
He has had playoff experience with the Flyers and Lightning, and now got to play his first game in the finals with the Kings.
Im a huge Simon Gagne & Flyers fan.
I was shocked when Holmgren traded him to the Lightning, but when he came to play in Philly again with the Lightning against the Flyers for the first time, we gave him a standing ovation!