Kevin Fiala Excluded from Kings' Lineup Against Sharks

The Los Angeles Kings made significant lineup changes ahead of their game against the San Jose Sharks, with Kevin Fiala being benched due to a violation of team rules, specifically missing a team meeting. Akil Thomas was set to make his season debut, initially expected to replace Trevor Lewis, though Lewis ended up playing as well. Fiala, who has been one of the Kings' top forwards with four goals in six games, faced a tumultuous few days after being criticized by head coach Jim Hiller for taking excessive penalties. Despite his absence against the Sharks, Fiala is scheduled to return for the game against the Vegas Golden Knights, where he is expected to replace Andre Lee in the lineup. The Kings need Fiala back to bolster their offense against the high-scoring Golden Knights, who average 4.70 goals per game. The Kings currently average three goals per game and will be relying on both Fiala and Thomas to enhance their scoring capabilities.