Kings and Blackhawks Set for Key Matchup in Chicago

CHICAGO, IL — The Los Angeles Kings will face the Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday at the United Center, marking the ninth game of the NHL season for both teams. The Kings are looking to bounce back after a shootout loss to the Nashville Predators, while the Blackhawks aim to extend their strong five-game stretch.

Los Angeles comes into this matchup with a record of 3-3-3, having lost five of their last seven games. In their last outing, they fell to the Predators by a score of 5-4. Coach Jim Hiller announced that goaltender Anton Forsberg will start, replacing Darcy Kuemper, who made 21 saves in Saturday’s game.

The Kings will be without Kyle Burroughs due to an upper body injury but welcome back team captain Anze Kopitar, who returned from injured reserve. Kopitar, who has four assists in five games this season, is in his final NHL season.

The Blackhawks come off a 3-2 victory against the Tampa Bay Lightning, improving their record to 4-2-2. Forward Ryan Donato was pivotal in that game, scoring twice to take his season tally to five goals. Donato has extended his goal streak to four games and now leads the team in points with seven.

Head Coach Jeff Blashill highlighted the importance of facing veteran players like Kopitar, noting that it provides a valuable learning experience for his young team. He praised Kopitar as one of the ‘winning centers’ in the game today, drawing comparisons to other NHL greats.

Chicago’s lines will be slightly adjusted due to the absence of Tyler Bertuzzi, who did not participate in practice and is considered day-to-day. Nick Foligno will take Bertuzzi’s spot on the top power play unit, as the Blackhawks look to maintain their momentum.

This game will feature a goaltending duel between Forsberg, who has a 3.89 GAA this season, and Chicago’s Arvid Soderblom, who is making his third appearance of the season after a long layoff.

The Kings’ current power play sits at 10th in the league, while the Blackhawks’ penalty kill ranks 12th. Special teams play could be crucial in this tightly contested matchup.

Puck drop is set for 6:00 p.m. CT, broadcasted locally on CHSN.