This was the Kings' Stanley Cup, their moment of glory in a season filled with regrettable events that greased their descent into last place in the NHL.
Their 3-1 victory over the defending champion Ducks at Staples Center on Thursday sprang from emotion and great energy, a performance that hinted at what they might achieve should this youth movement finally be the one that delivers the franchise from 40 years of Cup envy.
For now, defeating the Ducks will have to be consolation enough for the Kings, who will not win anything this season besides a prime position in the June entry draft.
The ease of the Kings' effort Thursday illustrated why the Ducks may not win anything of consequence this season, either.
For once, youthful Kings can feel like big winners (LA Times) 
