Kings Launch 2025-26 Season Against Avalanche at Crypto.com Arena

Los Angeles, CA — The Los Angeles Kings kick off the 2025-26 NHL season this evening against the Colorado Avalanche at Crypto.com Arena. This matchup is part of the league’s season-opening tripleheader.

Last season, the Kings and Avalanche split their games, with the Kings winning their home game and the Avalanche securing victories in Denver. During the last five seasons, Kings forward Anze Kopitar has stood out against Colorado, collecting 15 assists in 20 games, a total that ties for the NHL lead.

Tonight, the Kings are bringing a full squad of 22 players eligible to play. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper, who had an impressive season last year with a career-best 2.00 goals-against average, is expected to start. Kuemper is familiar with the Avalanche, having won a Stanley Cup with them in the 2021-22 season.

The expected lineup for the Kings includes forwards Kuzmenko, Kopitar, Kempe, and defensemen Doughty, Moverare, and Ceci among others. Notably, Corey Perry and Kyle Burroughs are on injured reserve.

On the other side, the Avalanche will also begin their season in Los Angeles. Captain Gabriel Landeskog will play his first regular-season game since March 2022 after missing two seasons due to injury.

Warren Foegele, a forward for the Kings, expressed confidence about the new season. “We’re a really good team,” he said, emphasizing the team’s focus on building off last year’s experience. Defenseman Brandt Clarke noted the team’s excitement and readiness for the challenge against the fast-paced Avalanche.

Cody Ceci, a former Dallas Stars player, highlighted the Avalanche’s strong capabilities. “They have all the tools,” he remarked, anticipating a tough opening game.

As the Kings aim for a strong season start, they also have larger goals ahead. Defenseman Drew Doughty mentioned the team’s ambition to win the division and prepare for the playoffs, even as they focus on taking it game by game.

This matchup not only marks the beginning of the season but also the last home opener for Kings captain Anze Kopitar, who has a history of performing well in Opening Night games. Fans looking forward to this matchup can expect an exciting night in Los Angeles as the Kings take on the Avalanche for the opener.