CASPER
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LOS ANGELES – Justin Williams finished his pirouette in front of the Tampa Bay net with a dramatic flourish, firing the puck past Mike Smith.
Although the goal was just about the only moment of beauty in a gritty, grinding game between conference leaders, it was enough to keep the Los Angeles Kings on top of the NHL.
Jonathan Quick made 24 saves in his ninth career shutout, Williams scored with 14:40 to play and the Kings remained unbeaten at home with a 1-0 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday night.
With a tight-checking win in their only meeting of the season with Tampa Bay, the Kings remained atop the overall standings with their ninth win in 12 games to open the season, including five victories at Staples Center to extend their longest unbeaten start to a home schedule in 30 years.
Los Angeles also beat the Lightning at home for the first time in 13 years.
"I don't look at it as a statement game," Los Angeles coach Terry Murray said. "It's just a big game that you have to respond to. ... There were a few hits, a few confrontations, a little old-time hockey."
And just one goal — but thanks to Quick, it was enough.
