
	Kings' next step: Shedding underdog status EL SEGUNDO - What looked on the outside like the end of the Kings' season looked like a start to Dean Lombardi on Monday night. Kings get consolation prize after losing out on Brad Richards: Simon Gagne For the Kings, Simon Gagne was an easier sell than Brad Richards. After Richards spurned the Kings' advances and signed a nine-year contract with the New York Rangers, Gagne agreed to a two-year, $7 million deal Saturday that should bolster a left side weakened by the loss of Ryan Smyth. Kings aggressively go after forward Richards, considered top free agent; Ducks deal for Foster NHL FREE AGENCY: Kings, Ducks look to cast bit parts Ryan Smyth finds his way home, as Kings finalize deal with Edmonton Ryan Smyth remains a King as deal with Edmonton Oilers falls through NHL DRAFT: Kings have something brewing, Ducks choose Rekell after trading down in first round Kings take a Flyer on big deal, acquiring Philadelphia captain Mike Richards for Wayne Simmonds, Brayden Schenn, draft pick JILL PAINTER: Sharks take a bite out of Kings' crown NHL: San Jose takes three-goal lead, holds on to sweep games in L.A., gain 3-1 series edge