Kings' Muzzin named Rookie of the Month for March

NEW YORK – Los Angeles Kings defenseman Jake Muzzin, who recorded 4-7—11 and posted a +10 rating in 17 games, has been named the NHL Rookie of the Month for March.

Muzzin edged Chicago Blackhawks left wing Brandon Saad (3-12—15 in 14 games), Florida Panthers center Jonathan Huberdeau (5-7—12 in 16 games), Montreal Canadiens right wing Brendan Gallagher (5-6—11 in 14 games), St. Louis Blues goaltender Jake Allen (5-2-0, 2.33 GAA, 1 SO) and Ottawa Senators goaltender Robin Lehner (3-1-3, 2.07 GAA) for the honor.

Muzzin, 24, had a career-high two goals and three points in a 6-4 win over the St. Louis Blues March 5. He also posted his first career multi-assist game (0-2—2) in a 3-1 victory over the Calgary Flames March 11 and first career game-winning goal in a 4-0 triumph over the Phoenix Coyotes March 18.

Selected by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the fifth round (141st overall) of the 2007 NHL Draft, Muzzin signed with the Kings as a free agent on Jan. 4, 2010. In 32 games this season, he leads all rookies with a +13 rating and ranks tied for third among freshmen blueliners with 14 points (6-8—14). Muzzin joins St. Louis Blues right wing Vladimir Tarasenko (January) and Florida Panthers center Jonathan Huberdeau (February) as Rookie of the Month winners this season.

Jake Muzzin in March