What we learned from the Kings’ 4-2 victory over the Detroit Red Wings

A couple of takeaways before the Kings ease -- deservedly so -- into the rejuvenation portion of their January schedule. They don’t play again until Saturday afternoon against Ottawa.

The modest man leads the way, again

Kings center Anze Kopitar was seemingly everywhere on Monday night against the Red Wings. He had a hand in all four goals -- one goal and three assists --- and now has 15 points in the last nine games. Kopitar also had four assists against Vancouver on Dec. 28.

Per the busy number crunchers at the Elias Sports Bureau, three players have had two four-point performances in a game this season: Kopitar, Daniel Sedin of the Vancouver Canucks and Tyler Seguin of the Dallas Stars.

Nice company.

Kopitar, of course, isn’t the bragging kind of guy, not even a “humble bragger.”

No problem. Defenseman and teammate Alec Martinez, if necessary, will step up for Kopitar and “pump his tires.”

Faceoff help has arrived

Newcomer Vinny Lecavalier had an assist in his first game with the Kings on Thursday against Toronto. But his third game really showed his worth -- and in an area where the Kings can use some extra help.

The faceoff circle.

Lecavalier was impressive, winning 13 of 16 faceoffs against the Red Wings. His presence could help take pressure off the likes of Kopitar and Jeff Carter.

Kopitar was the only Kings player to take more faceoffs than Lecavalier. He won 11 of 18 faceoffs, and Carter was four of nine.

“I thought Kopi and Vinny were both really good in those areas,” Kings Coach Darryl Sutter said in his post-game session with reporters.

“They were out there for just about every draw.”