Defending Cup winner, points leader both miss playoffs for 1st time since 1969

The Boston Bruins and Los Angeles Kings both entered 2014-15 with high expectations.

The Kings were riding their second Stanley Cup victory in three seasons, while Boston had just won the Presidents' Trophy as the top team in the regular season. Both teams looked like good bets to contend for hockey's top prize once again, but they combined to make the kind of history with which neither team wants to be associated.

Los Angeles was eliminated from postseason contention Thursday and the Bruins were knocked out Saturday, marking the first time since the 1968-69 season that the defending Stanley Cup champion and the regular-season points leader both missed the playoffs the following year.

The Kings and Bruins were both among the top 10 teams in terms of puck-possession statistics, yet struggled to win in shootouts and on the road. Their combined shootout record was a dismal 6-18 and neither team had a winning record in away contests.

Better luck next year, guys.