The Kings are in action for the first time since last Thursday after being idle during their league-enforced bye week. That kind of rust can prove fatal as it did to Calgary three days ago when the Flames were shut out by Arizona, 5-0 at home, after not playing for six days.

Now the Kings aren't the Flames, but there are elements and statistics that point to a very close game. At this huge 'dog price, the Coyotes are worth a peanut.

Los Angeles isn't a big-scoring team ranking 24th, averaging less than 2.5 goals a game. The oddsmaker isn't expecting much scoring either setting an over/under of 5. This is just the Kings' second home game since Jan. 18 and first since Feb. 1. So the Kings need to get reacquainted with their home ice.

LA defeated Florida in its last game last Thursday, but were outscored by a combined 10-0 during their previous two games.

Arizona is used to West Coast time. The Coyotes are a highly respectable 6-3-1 in their last 10 games. Center Max Domi and defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson are good players and are playing well. Christian Dvorak has scored five goals in his last six games. Goalie Mike Smith made the All-Star team and is capable of sensational performances.

The main part of this handicap, though, is a fade on the Kings based largely on their unusual circumstances and the overly generous 'dog price on the Coyotes.

(Editor's note: Stephen Nover has both his NHL Total of the Week and NBA Total of the Week going today in addition to this free selection.)