He's been the most consistent forward on the Kings since the 1st game of the season. 18 pts in 21 games, despite having several linemates . He's playing solid in all 3 zones, terrific on the PK, and esp checking in the offensive zone, he's been sniping pucks at a high level and creating chaos. Given the scouting reports going back to Yzerman, and the fact both Yzerman and Babcock are huge fans of his, (esp Babcock) if he's healthy, he's a lock for the 4th /checking line.
What he gives, as Babcock has attested to , you can't coach. He called Ricahrds a 'goldplated Swiss Army knife that makes the right decision 9 times out of 10 and that's something you can't coach'.
And Richards has leadership in spades and just thrives in pressure like the Olympics brings , one of the smartest players in the game. Also has a mean streak a mile wide and those fangs and that big dose of nasty give an edge to any team he plays for.