Buffalo Sabres Face L.A. Kings Amid Challenges and Tactical Shifts

On the evening of January 24, 2024, the Buffalo Sabres are set to challenge the Los Angeles Kings at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. This matchup is significant for both teams as they seek momentum in their respective divisions. The game is scheduled to begin at 10:30 pm EST and will be broadcast on MSG, with radio coverage on WGR 550.

The Los Angeles Kings, holding a respectable record of 10-6-3 with 23 points, recently triumphed over the Detroit Red Wings with a 4-1 victory, positioning them second in the Pacific Division. However, their power play has been less effective, ranking 26th at 15.52%, though they have maintained a solid penalty kill at 14th with an 80.30% success rate.

Historically, the Buffalo Sabres have a favorable record against the Kings, holding a 66-50-18 advantage since 1970. However, they were defeated by the Kings during their previous meeting on October 10 this season at KeyBank Center. As the Sabres aim to uphold their strong away performance—having not lost to the Kings in Los Angeles since February 13, 2023—they face the challenge of replicating a stellar 60-minute effort to avoid a repeat of their October performance.

The Sabres are grappling with key absences due to injuries. Center Tage Thompson has been sidelined with a lower-body injury since November 11, suffered during a game against the Montreal Canadiens, leaving a significant void in the team’s offensive line. Winger Alex Tuch, a prominent scorer, is also uncertain to play and is listed as a game-time decision.

With Thompson’s absence, center Ryan McCleod is set to step in, while right winger Isak Rosen may fill in for Tuch if needed. McCleod has had a productive season to date, scoring twice in his last two matches, whereas Rosen is still seeking his first point in the 2024-25 season, perhaps tonight presents an opportunity.

Additionally, the Sabres are set to welcome back starting goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, who has been absent from recent games. Luukkonen’s return is anticipated as head coach Lindy Ruff opted to send backup netminder Devon Levi to Rochester, indicating confidence in Luukkonen’s readiness. The team’s success often hinges on Luukkonen’s prowess between the posts, especially in high-pressure scenarios, such as facing the Kings in their home arena.

Buffalo’s lineup includes forwards JJ Peterka, Ryan McCleod, and possibly Alex Tuch, among others. On defense, Rasmus Dahlin is paired with Bowen Byram, while Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is the likely starting goaltender, supported by James Reimer.

For the Kings, forward lines are led by Alex Turcotte, Anze Kopitar, and Adrian Kempe. Kevin Fiala and Philip Danault form part of the second line, with expected contributions from Warren Foegele and Quinton Byfield. Mikey Anderson partners with Vladislav Gavrikov in defense, while David Rittich is expected to start as goaltender, with Erik Portillo as backup.