Belanger, Out With Wrist Injury, Eager to Return

Forward Eric Belanger, out of the lineup since Jan. 15 because of a left wrist injury, could be back on the ice before the end of the month.

“I’m feeling pretty good,” said Belanger, who had eight goals and 22 points in 46 games at the time of his injury. “If everything goes well [when he sees the doctor March 15] I could be able to return a week or so earlier than anticipated....

“It’s always frustrating when you miss games, especially the way the team has been playing,” said Belanger, ranked fifth in the league in faceoff win percentage (58.5%). “It’s been a learning process for me. I hope to be a better player when I get back.

“I’ll be able to bring a lot of energy and that may help the team for the final games.”

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Coach Andy Murray, who’s still recovering from post-concussion syndrome in Minnesota, told the Kings’ pregame television show on Monday that he’s feeling better and has not experienced any discomfort for two consecutive days for the first time since his Feb. 15 single-vehicle accident.

Left wing Ted Donato, who played in his only two games as a King last week against Pittsburgh and Columbus, has been designated for assignment to the minors but he has to clear waivers before he can report to Manchester of the American Hockey League.

Center Jason Allison is scheduled to visit with the kids and families at the Los Angeles Ronald McDonald House on March 13 as part of his matching donation program, which is based on the number of points he scores this season.