Jack Johnson certainly didn't envision picking up his first goal of the season in January, but he sure did make his first goal a memorable one. After injuring his shoulder in the second game of the season, Jack missed the next 41 games of the Kings season. His return to the lineup this week is a boost to the Los Angeles locker room as the team is looking to climb into the playoffs.

On Wednesday night in Colorado, Johnson picked up that first goal he's been looking for. Early in the second period, with the Kings up 2-1, Johnson fired home an absolute rocket to finish off a three on two. His one-timer goal came just outside the left faceoff circle and helped the Kings pick up a huge 6-5 victory against the Avalanche.

"I was just letting it rip," Johnson said. "It was nice to get it, but it was more nice to help this team win, and that's part of the reason why I came back a little earlier than expected. It's nice to help get another win on the road."

Johnson definitely hasn't been eased back into the lineup, as the third year defenseman has picked up over 20 minutes of ice time in two of his three games since returning from injury. The Kings hit the All-Star break having won two games in a row and six points out of the final playoff spot. They will be looking to make up that difference when they take on the Blackhawks next Thursday in Los Angeles.

Posted By: Luke Ventura