Sharks vs. Kings Lines: Melker in, Ward out
No Joel Ward, but Melker Karlsson is back in.
Today's morning skate was of the optional variety, so we won't have a confirmation on tonight's lines until shortly before puck drop. But thanks to some tidbits from Friend of the Blog Kevin Kurz we've got an update on Joel Ward's status (should be back after Christmas) and a look at the projected lines for tonight's game.
First Liner Dainius Zubrus is still a thing, and we have an okay third line of Karlsson-Tierney-Wingels. Hertl is stuck on the fourth line with Brown and Smith, but this isn't the worst lineup the Sharks have iced this season. Marc-Edouard Vlasic is a game-time decision, but hopefully he's able to go knowing there will be a long break after tonight's game.
Projected Sharks Lines
Projected Kings Lines