Johnson Scores, and Also Saves

Left wing Craig Johnson scored a goal in his second consecutive game, but it was a late defensive play he made in overtime to cover up his own mistake that was equally important in the Kings’ 2-2 tie at Dallas Wednesday night.

The Stars’ Mike Modano had the puck and was charging up the ice when Johnson skated him down and prevented a goal but was called for holding with 12 seconds left.

“I should have made a better play on him to start with,” Johnson said. “I didn’t respect his speed and he put in a different gear and kind of went by me. I had to do something to keep him from putting the puck on goal.

Dallas has not lost to the Kings in 11 consecutive games, but Coach Larry Robinson did not have many complaints about Wednesday night’s tie.

“Too bad we didn’t play the first [period] like we did the second and third,” he said.

“But you have to walk before you can run. This was a big step for us, especially a team like Dallas [known for how it] can protect a lead.”

Tonight vs. Phoenix

6 PST

Site--America West Arena.

Radio--XTRA 690 (AM).

Records--Kings 16-16-7; Coyotes 17-16-7.

Record vs. Coyotes--0-1.

Update--Phoenix is one of the hottest teams in the league after completing a three-game road sweep, which included a 4-2 victory over the Kings last week at the Forum. Keith Tkachuck leads the team with 24 goals and has scored six over his last three games. The Kings are 1-0-1 over their last two games and are chasing the Coyotes for fifth spot in the Western Conference. Center Jozef Stumpel has 10 points over his last seven games, including a point in his last four. Goaltender Jamie Storr, who suffered last weeks lost to Phoenix, is expected to start.