Patrik Bartosak Keeping Los Angeles Kings In Negative Spotlight

After trying to distance themselves from troubled defenseman Slava Voynov, the Los Angeles Kings just can’t seem to shy away from negative media attention. It was reported today that goaltending prospect Patrik Bartosak will face a felony charge of second degree assault.

This, of course, is terrible news for the Kings internally. As if the Mike Richards or Jarret Stoll situations weren’t embarrassing or troubling enough, another serious charge of domestic assault was the last thing the Kings wanted on their plate. Bartosak plays in the King’s AHL affiliate Manchester Monarchs/Ontario Reign. Bartosak was drafted by the Kings in the fifth round of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. He signed a three-year entry-level deal in March of the following year. Bartosak had a fairly successful career playing for his junior club, the Red Deer Rebels.

It’s almost academic that Bartosak will be released from his contract as the Kings will try their hardest to distance themselves from another criminal case. However, this will also put the Kings in need for another goaltender in their minor leagues. 33-year-old veteran Peter Budaj would become the only goaltender on the Kings’ list of non-roster players if they decide to cut ties with Bartosak.

While there truly isn’t good news in regards to this situation, the brighter side is that Bartosak was not playing with the big club at the time. The Kings have played well to start the 2015-16 regular season, and they currently lead the Pacific Division with an 11-6 record. It doesn’t seem like the team is focused on anything but the task at hand.