To try to prevent future injuries and help them adapt to a busy NHL schedule in their first seasons as professionals, the Sharks plan to give Smith and fellow rookie center Macklin Celebrini — once he’s fully healthy — scheduled games off throughout the first half of the season.

Analyzing Thursday’s San Jose Sharks at LA Kings odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

Welcome to the latest edition of NHL Predictions. Each day, our team here at Last Word on Hockey breaks down head-to-head matchups and other key elements that may influence the outcome of each game.