Kings Face Islanders as Playoff Push Intensifies

LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles Kings are set to face off against the New York Islanders tonight at Crypto.com Arena as they push toward the playoffs. With 20 games remaining in the regular season, the Kings are in a prime position to secure their postseason fate, while the Islanders strive for their playoff spot.

LA coach Jim Hiller recently emphasized the depth of his lineup, particularly after the acquisition of forward Andrei Kuzmenko. “He’s been a solid addition to our top line, and we hope to stabilize that left wing position moving forward,” Hiller said.

Despite struggles with scoring droughts this season, the Kings demonstrated their potential to dominate offensively in recent games, particularly in a match where they netted multiple goals. However, the team faces a challenge in the goaltending department, as David Rittich has struggled lately, which raises concerns over the potential overuse of their primary goaltender, Darcy Kuemper.

While the Kings appear to be gaining momentum from a busy home schedule this month, Hiller has opted to maintain a consistent lineup for tonight’s game, with expectations for Kuemper to return after being sidelined since Saturday’s overtime victory.

The Kings previously faced the Islanders last year, winning that encounter and continuing a streak where New York has not won in Los Angeles since October 2018. “It’s crucial we keep that trend going,” said team captain Anze Kopitar. Kopitar recently became only the third player born and trained outside of North America to achieve 18 career 50-point seasons.

Notably, defenseman Brandt Clarke made headlines last game, notching his fifth goal of the season and becoming the first Kings defenseman under the age of 22 to reach five goals in a single season since 2011. “It’s exciting to be part of a team that’s improving every game,” Clarke stated.

Additionally, both Warren Foegele and Vladislav Gavrikov reached their 100th career assists in a recent game, fueling the team’s offensive confidence. A victory over the Islanders tonight would grant the Kings a sweep in their season series for the 13th time in franchise history.

Tonight’s puck drop is at 7:30 PM Pacific Time, and fans can catch the game on FanDuel Sports Network or via the Kings’ new radio feed on the ESPN LA app. The live audience will also have an opportunity to participate in the ‘Puck for a Buck’ contest featuring Alex Laferriere.

The New York Islanders are coming off a 4-1 loss against the Anaheim Ducks and will aim to regain their footing with adjustments in their lineup. Their last visit to Los Angeles was part of a series where they have struggled to find success.