The 1-3-1 sucks when it comes to actually contending in the modern NHL, but like someone said, for a team without true 1st line game-breakers it's the best option. The Kings would not be a playoff team playing the style of hockey that most contenders are playing, they'd give up to many goals and don't have the horses to keep up offensively.
I do think it's a bit strange that the Kings and some the people who cover the team are so over the top defensive about it's effectiveness, "They hate it because it works so well" , I mean the Kings have been a middle of the road type team the last three seasons running it, no playoff series wins, consistent 3rd place division finishes. It's not like it's the NJ Devils trap or the Red Wings left-wing-lock that resulted in actual results. It's ok results for a team with a middling roster, but these guys (and Doughty) act like the Kings are hanging banners from the rafters running it and everyone is pissed.
This loss was a blessing, because the Kings need to do everything they can do get out of the 1st round matchup with the Oilers, it's a draw-dead situation if we play Edmonton. The last 3 years McDavid has 16 multi-point games out of 23 vs the Kings. He along is accounting for at least 2 goals, it makes it where you have to basically shut down everyone else to really give yourself a chance. The Kings can't stop McDavid and don't have the skill to play run and gun with these guys, it's a terrible terrible recipe.
Take the WC and move to the central bracket, we will still be big dogs, but we at least have a chance. Just hope like hell somebody else takes care of Edmonton.
I know you are being sarcastic, but I have heard some say this and being serious. I remember when the same things were said about the last time a player inexplicably collapsed. "You watch, he's going to turn it on in the playoffs". Players don't play this poorly for an entire season and then flip a switch.
