Ferraro Contributes to New Enthusiasm

Forward Ray Ferraro was a reluctant King when he arrived in a March trade with the New York Rangers. But he has been among the most enthusiastic players in camp, and he’s eager to make his exhibition debut tonight against Phoenix at San Diego.

“I feel 100% better about things now than when I got here,” said Ferraro, who had four goals and six points in 11 games with the Kings last season and 60 points in 76 games overall. “I sense a completely different attitude here. It’s way more positive. The guys who didn’t want to be here have moved on. That doesn’t mean they were bad guys, just that sometimes a change is good for you.”

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Defenseman Rob Blake (elbow infection) participated in an informal intrasquad scrimmage Thursday before 4,000 fans who attended an open practice at the Forum. However, he is not ready for game action. “I can skate, but I can’t shoot yet,” Blake said. “It’s coming along. Hopefully I can get into the last two games.” . . . Jamie Storr will start in goal tonight. . . . Left wing Craig Johnson has been idled by a sore hip.