Williams flies under radar for Kings

Associated Press

NEWARK, NJ

Justin Williams has found the perfect hiding spot for a man who relishes his space on the ice and privacy off it.

The first line.

What an ideal location to play hide-and-seek during the Stanley Cup Final. Even a day after the Kings’ forward set up linemate and center Anze Kopitar in overtime with a sensational no-look backhand pass in Game 1, there wasn’t a huge clamor for more time with Williams on Thursday.

Odd but interesting. Williams was not only the Kings’ second-leading scorer during the regular season but also is approachable and insightful in terms of breaking down the game.

“He goes unnoticed,” said Kings captain Dustin Brown, his other linemate. “He kind of likes it that way. I think it also helps him on the ice. Kopi draws the most attention of anybody on our team.”

Brown then had the line of the day, speaking about himself.

“And maybe I draw some attention,” he said. “Maybe not a threat-to-score standpoint. But I want-to-kill-you standpoint.”

Kings President and General Manager Dean Lombardi acquired Williams in 2009 from the Hurricanes in a three-way deal with the Oilers and Carolina. It was not merely for his obvious offensive abilities but his leadership qualities. Williams was with the Hurricanes when they won the Cup in 2006.

“It’s kind of funny, Willie is Willie. You’re right, now that I think about it,” said Lombardi, referring to the lack of recognition. “His experience is invaluable. It takes on another dimension that goes beyond his play.

Williams has eight points in his last nine games, six of them assists.