Palffy In, Deadmarsh Likely Out

CHICAGO -- Welcome back, Ziggy Palffy. Adios, Adam Deadmarsh.

The revolving door to the Kings’ training room took another unexpected swing Wednesday when Coach Andy Murray said that Palffy, who has been sidelined six of the last seven games because of a strained left groin, is expected to play tonight against the Chicago Blackhawks.

Deadmarsh, however, probably will sit out after suffering a right wrist injury in Sunday’s 5-1 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, then aggravating the injury in Tuesday night’s 4-0 victory over the Atlanta Thrashers.

Deadmarsh, whose goal Sunday was his fourth in two games, played less than eight minutes against the Thrashers and wore a wrist brace Wednesday.

Murray said it was possible he could play tonight, but the coach drew up a lineup that did not include the rugged winger.

“I’d rather tell the guys, ‘This is how we’re going to play without him,’ ” Murray said. “Then if he can play, we plug him in and it’s a bonus.”

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Felix Potvin’s shutout Tuesday was his 26th in 572 NHL games, his 12th in 101 games with the Kings. He had a career-high six last season.... Steve Kelly was recalled from the minors when Jason Allison was put on injured reserve.

TONIGHT

at Chicago, 5:30 PST

Fox Sports Net

Site -- United Center.

Radio -- KSPN (1110).

Records -- Kings 5-2-2, Blackhawks 4-3-1.

Record vs. Blackhawks (2001-02) -- 2-2.

Update -- The Blackhawks made the playoffs last season, ending a four-year drought, and are off to a strong start this season, but few in Chicago seem to have noticed. Only 10,203 turned out for Tuesday night’s 3-2 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets at the United Center. Goaltender Jocelyn Thibault picked up his 200th victory.