Kings getting injured players back

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It might be just what the Kings wanted for Christmas: They’re likely to get several players back in their lineup when they end an eight-day break Saturday at Phoenix against the Coyotes.

Forwards Wayne Simmonds, Ryan Smyth and Brandon Segal and defenseman Jack Johnson are expected to be available Saturday. However, defenseman Randy Jones, who had a stiff neck and headaches after a collision with Edmonton’s Dustin Penner last week, was again limited to riding a bike and didn’t skate Wednesday, a club spokesman said. Center Jarret Stoll (groin) also stayed off the ice Wednesday.

The NHL prohibits practicing or playing on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, so the Kings will reconvene Saturday for a 7 a.m. flight and a game-day skate in Phoenix.

-- Helene Elliott