The Kings are gearing up for a unique stretch in their schedule, playing three consecutive games in the New York Tri-State area. Their first test is against the Islanders on Thursday.
Under interim coach DJ Smith, the Kings have started their road trip strong, posting a 1-0-1 record and securing three out of a possible four points. A win tonight could propel LA back into the playoff race, but they’re eyeing more than just a wild card spot.
With games in hand over division rivals Edmonton and Vegas, the Kings are still very much in the hunt for a coveted Pacific Division spot. If they can capitalize on these upcoming road games, it could set the stage for a thrilling return to Crypto.com Arena next week.
Since Smith took the helm, the team has shown a noticeable uptick in pace and intensity. However, with a packed schedule this month, including three games in four nights, managing fatigue will be crucial.
Tonight, the Kings face the challenge of containing Islanders' defenseman Matthew Schaefer. His ability to create scoring opportunities on every shift makes him a key player to watch. Shutting him down could be the key to securing another two points on Long Island.
Without a morning skate, the Kings' lineup remains a bit of a mystery, especially in goal. Here’s a projected lineup:
Statistically Speaking
- The Kings are looking to sweep the season series against the Islanders, having defeated them 5-3 at home on March 5.
- Artemi Panarin netted his first goal for the Kings in that March 5 game, marking his 20th goal of the season for the tenth time in his career. This achievement places him alongside Martin St. Louis as the only undrafted players to reach such a milestone.
- Goalie Darcy Kuemper has been effective against the Islanders, boasting a 4-0-1 record with a .925 save percentage and a 2.20 goals-against average in his last five starts against them.
- Adrian Kempe has been a force at UBS Arena, scoring in his last two visits and tallying four goals and six points in his last five meetings with the Islanders.
- Mikey Anderson had a standout performance in the last matchup against the Islanders, recording his first multi-point game of the season.
Projected Lineup
- Forwards: Panarin - Kopitar - Kempe Moore - Byfield - Laferriere Turcotte - Laughton - Wright Malott - Helenius - Ward
- Defense: Anderson - Doughty Edmundson - Clarke Dumoulin - Ceci
- Goalies: Kuemper (starter) Forsberg
- Likely Scratches: Joseph (F) Moverare (D)
- Injured Reserve: Armia, Fiala, Kuzmenko
How to Watch the Game
The Islanders are coming off a 4-3 win over St. Louis. Here’s how they lined up in that game:
- Forwards: Heineman - Horvat - Barzal Palat - Schenn - Ritchie Lee - Pageau - Holmstrom Duclair - Cizikas - Gatcomb
- Defense: Schaefer - Pulock Pelech - DeAngelo Soucy - Mayfield
- Goalie: Sorokin
On This Day in Kings History
Back on March 13, 2000, the Kings made a notable trade, acquiring Kelly Buchberger and Nelson Emerson from the Atlanta Thrashers in exchange for Donald Audette and Frantisek Kaberle. Buchberger and Emerson both made significant contributions during their time with the team. #GoKingsGo