And they're off!

So don't ever ask me what team you should put money on. My prediction about the season opener would have lost you a bundle.

Despite a seemingly unimpressive preseason punctuated by a goaltending hangover from last year, the Kings claimed the first victory of the NHL season by beating the Stanley Cup champ Ducks 4-1.

Jonathan Bernier was impressive in his NHL debut and will make it hard for LA to send him back to junior, particularly if Jason LaBarbera fails to identify himself as the clear starter.

Here's my latest prediction: Add Bernier to your fantasy team now. He'll soon be the no. 1 guy in LA. You can put money on it, just don't come crying to me when I'm wrong.

Red Bull update: Kings win exhibition tourney

The Kings eked out another win in the Red Bull Salute Tournament, a promotional tune-up for the season opener in London. Anze Kopitar scored with 46 seconds left to win the game and tournament for Los Angeles.

I was expecting their narrow victory over EC Red Bull Salzburg to be a wake up call for the Kings. I know the preseason is not a predictor of regular season play, but expect the Ducks to make quick work of LA this weekend.

Kings down Red Bull Salzburg...barely

The Los Angeles Kings escaped embarrassment by narrowly defeating the EC Red Bull Salzburg 7-6 in exhibition play. Either Red Bull gave Salzburg wings or the Kings took their European foes for granted.

As a prelude to the NHL season opener at London's O2 Arena, the Kings are participating in the Red Bull Salute Tournament. They'll face off against Sweden's Farjestad BK tomorrow before heading off to the UK.