Kings sign Pearson to extension

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- The Los Angeles Kings have signed forward Tanner Pearson to a two-year, $2.8 million contract extension.

The defending Stanley Cup champions announced the deal Thursday.

Pearson has scored 23 points in 67 games with the Kings. He played a prominent role last year in the Kings' run to their second championship in three seasons, scoring 12 points in 24 games on the so-called "That '70s Line" with Jeff Carter and Tyler Toffoli. All three players have jersey numbers in the 70s.

Pearson got off to a strong start to this season, scoring seven goals in his first eight games. The left winger has been sidelined since he broke his left leg Jan. 10, and he seems increasingly unlikely to return during the regular season.