Perfect Punch Line

One of the more comical moments in the Kings’ 1-1 tie against the Nashville Predators on Tuesday night took place midway through the period when Eric Belanger and the Predators’ Scott Hartnell traded punches ... inside the Kings’ net.

It looked as if Belanger was coming to the aid of goaltender Felix Potvin, who was bumped by Hartnell, but Belanger said there was more to it.

“He punched me right in the face,” he said of Hartnell, “so I punched him back. I won’t let myself get punched in the face, especially when he hit the goalie a little bit. You’ve got to let him know.”

Belanger and Hartnell both received roughing penalties.

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Rookie Andreas Lilja has played in the Kings’ last six games after recovering from a knee injury suffered during a conditioning assignment in the minors. The Swedish defenseman had two points in Sunday’s 5-2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks, including his first NHL goal.

“I think he can play with a little more physical edge,” Coach Andy Murray said, offering an early assessment. “I think early in the games he’s had some problems with penalties and I think he’s a little on the tentative side right now. He’s a big man. He should be a Matty Norstrom, with a little more offensive touch.”

TONIGHT

vs. Vancouver, 7:30 Fox Sports Net/ESPN2

Site--Staples Center.

Radio--KSPN (1110).

Records--Kings 9-14-5-2, Canucks 13-17-4-0.

Record vs. Canucks (2000-01)--3-0-0-1.

Update--The Kings haven’t lost at home to the Canucks since April 6, 1996, going 9-0-2 while outscoring them, 40-13.

Tickets--(888) 546-4752.