Kings Miss Top Forwards

NHL teams

"Early in training camp our feeling was that they would be ready to go early and maybe would be able to play the last few exhibition games," Coach Andy Murray said. "Basically a couple weeks ago, we all started talking that they're not coming along just like we hoped."

Deadmarsh has missed every game since suffering a second concussion in a two-week period in December. Allison had been out since February after three whiplash collisions.

"It's been frustrating and hard because Deadmarsh and I want to be out there, and it's hard when you have to watch and not be part of the team," Allison said. "Sometimes it feels like I'm not part of the team, because I'm isolated doing my own thing. When I am healthy I'll need extra time to skate with the guys because I haven't had time to do drills at the NHL level. It would be nice to have that feeling back."

Kings officials are hopeful for November return for Allison and Deadmarsh, but the players don't have any timetables.

"It's frustrating, especially since the guys started playing again," Deadmarsh said. "Once the summer came you don't feel so bad at home, because you're not missing anything. It's kind of like the frustration is starting all over again. It's just as frustrating for the coaching and management side that I haven't healed quicker."

"It's like any team in the league. You don't want to have too many key injuries," left wing Luc Robitaille said. "It's very hard to win. Then again, it gives chances to other guys. But for us to do what we want to do, we need Deader to be healthy, we need Ally to be healthy. Your defensemen are key and your centers. You can't miss those guys if you really want to make an impact."