Robinson Creates a New Speed Line

In a move to give the Kings a checking line with speed, Coach Larry Robinson teamed center Nathan LaFayette with wingers Craig Johnson and Russ Courtnall Saturday night against the Phoenix Coyotes at the Forum.

Because the Kings have had more than their share of difficulties against teams with skilled players who can skate, Robinson hopes his new speed line can help counter this problem.

“It gives me a line that can play a [Vancouver’s Mark] Messier line, it gives me a lot of speed to use against them,” Robinson said. “With the three of them, there’s a little bit of offense as well.”

With Matt Johnson sidelined because of a groin injury, Steve McKenna, who had played with LaFayette and Courtnall the last two weeks, moved to a line with Ian Laperriere and Dan Bylsma against the Coyotes.

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Glen Murray’s assist on Vladimir Tsyplakov’s second period goal Saturday night was his 17th, a personal season high. Murray has 27 points, four shy of the career high he set with Boston in 1993-94.

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The 20 shots on goal Phoenix launched in the first period tied a season-high for a King opponent. Colorado recorded 20 in the third period of the Kings’ 2-1 overtime win Nov. 23.

The most shots in a period for the Kings this season is 17 against Toronto in a 5-2 win on Dec. 18 at the Forum.

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Center Ray Ferraro, cleared to play after missing the last two weeks following knee surgery, joined Doug Zmolek, Donald MacLean and Matt Johnson as scratches.