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Lombardi hopes the Kings get an invigorated Iginla

Avalanche Canucks Hockey

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Brad Stuart (17) celebrates Jarome Iginla’s goal past Vancouver Canucks goalie Eddie Lack, left, as Canucks defenseman Luca Sbisa (5) watches during the second period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, March 26, 2015, in Vancouver, British Columbia. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Jonathan Hayward)

AP

Dean Lombardi is hoping that Jarome Iginla will be reinvigorated by a chance to win.

The Kings’ general manager acquired the 39-year-old forward yesterday from the worst team in the NHL, the Colorado Avalanche.

“It’s really hard for top players who had great success at the end of their careers to play on teams that are struggling,” Lombardi said, per LA Kings Insider.

Iginla comes to the Kings with just eight goals in 61 games this season. He’s expected to debut on a line with Anze Kopitar, who’s having a pretty tough season himself.

“I think in terms of Jarome and the other guys who were available, the one thing about him is there’s no question about his competitiveness,” said Lombardi. “What you’re banking on is despite the age and everything else that that competitiveness can come through, and if it does, his dimension would we feel be a good fit for one of our two top centers.”

The Kings, one point back of a wild-card spot, host the Maple Leafs tonight.

“I really appreciate the opportunity to be in meaningful, competitive games,” said Iginla.

Related: Iginla excited and grateful for opportunity with Kings