Robitaille ‘Hurt’ Over Inactivity

Luc Robitaille has been an unhappy spectator for the Kings in their effort to get back into a Stanley Cup playoff position.

Robitaille was scratched from the lineup the last two games after having his playing time reduced in the seven games since John Torchetti became interim coach. Robitaille has averaged 12 minutes per game in that time.

“I’m disappointed,” Robitaille said. “I feel I have done a lot for the organization and to be put aside at the most important time of the year hurt. Everyone knows I am getting toward the end. I want to be a part of it. I can still help this team.”

Robitaille has one goal in the last 14 games. Yet, in the last nine games in which he played at least 15 minutes, he has eight goals and two assists. Robitaille, who holds the Kings’ record with 557 goals, is sixth on the team this season with 15.

“You would think someone in the organization would say something about me not being in the playoff run,” he said. “I can help if they put me on the ice. It’s a big deal.”

The Kings, two points out of a playoff spot, played Monday and Tuesday. Yet, Torchetti did not change the lineup for the second game, and the Kings lost to the Mighty Ducks, 6-2.

“We are going to field the best lineup we feel we have for each game,” Torchetti said. “Right now, Luc is out of the lineup, we’re expecting for him to provide leadership and experience in the locker room.”

Asked to assess Robitaille’s play, Torchetti said, “I talk to players about all that stuff. I don’t comment about [it publicly]. Whatever I got to say is between me and Luc. He’s a special person. Right now he’s just not in the lineup. When he gets in and gets the opportunity, he’ll do the job.”

Robitaille said Wednesday he had not been told whether he would play against San Jose tonight, even though he had already spoken to Torchetti and General Manager Dave Taylor.

“In the end, that is what is disappointing,” Robitaille said.

TONIGHT

vs. San Jose, 7:30, FSNW

Site -- Staples Center.

Radio -- 710.

Records -- Kings 40-32-5, Sharks 38-26-11.

Record vs. Sharks -- 1-4-1.

Update -- With five games remaining, the Kings have little margin for error. Defenseman Aaron Miller is doubtful because of chronic back problems.

Tickets -- (888) 546-4752.