Klatt Is Gone, but Canucks Remember Him

The spotlight rarely finds Trent Klatt, but he got caught in its glare.

With TV camera lights providing the backdrop, Klatt faced a horde of local journalists in the visitors’ dressing room Wednesday morning.

That the Vancouver media remain fascinated by the low-key Klatt, who signed a two-year deal with the Kings in July after spending five seasons with the Canucks, could be interpreted as a sign that Klatt is considered one that got away from Vancouver.

The Canucks have struggled since Todd Bertuzzi’s season-ending suspension, in part because they’ve been lacking the toughness up front Klatt is known to provide.

“It’s been difficult for those guys,” Klatt said. “They’re trying to find themselves. Obviously we’re seeing the type of impact Todd Bertuzzi has.”

Klatt’s gritty, selfless play has resonated with King fans and his production -- 17 goals, 25 assists -- makes his $2.2-million price tag a bargain.

“One of the lessons I learned a long time ago is if I’m going to play in this league I’ve got to do something every night, and that’s work hard,” said Klatt, who has spent most of the season on the Kings’ top line with Luc Robitaille and Derek Armstrong. “I’ve been fortunate to play with two pretty good players.”

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The Kings continue to be in the unusual position of rooting from afar for the Mighty Ducks, temporarily casting aside their local rivalry in the hope it will help them get to the playoffs.

The Ducks play tonight against the St. Louis Blues, one of three teams the Kings are battling for the last two Western Conference playoff spots.