NHL Power Rankings: Same Two Teams On Top

By Gail Kauchak

Dec 13, 2016

Dec 12, 2016; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens goalie Carey Price (31) makes a save against Boston Bruins as defenseman Shea Weber (6) defends and right wing David Backes (42) during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 10, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Ottawa Senators defenseman Marc Methot (3) chases down Los Angeles Kings center Jeff Carter (77) as he takes the puck behind the net in the second period of the game at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 16: LA Kings

Previous: 12th

Season Record: 14-11-2

Holding the second wild card slot in the Western Division, the Kings have had a relatively light schedule so far in the month of December. They’ve only played in four games, winning two and losing two. With Jonathan Quick out, Peter Budaj is doing as exemplary job as the backup. He has 13 wins, 7 losses, a 2.18 goals against average, and a .910 save percentage. It will be interesting to see if he can continue at his current pace for the long haul.

The King’s schedule picks up as the month goes along, and they hit the road for the next nine games.