Kings Face Tough Test Against Avalanche in Crucial Matchup

DENVER, Colo. — The Los Angeles Kings are set to take on the Colorado Avalanche Thursday evening in a thrilling matchup as they continue their push for playoff positioning. After a brief travel day, the Kings are looking to build on their strong recent performance, with a record of 9-1-0 in their last ten games.

This will mark the second meeting of the season between the Kings and Avalanche, with Colorado edging out LA 4-2 in their earlier matchup back in November. In that game, Kings forward Adrian Kempe shone with two goals, while Avalanche forward Mikko Rantanen dominated, contributing three goals and an assist before his recent trade from Colorado.

Tonight’s game will also see Kings goaltender David Rittich between the pipes. Rittich holds a career record of 5-6-0 against the Avalanche, with a .891 save percentage and a 3.37 goals-against average.

With the Kings coping with injuries, forward Jeff Malott is looking to make his LA Kings debut this evening after being recalled from the AHL’s Ontario Reign. Malott has been impressive at the AHL level, scoring 23 goals and accumulating 51 points, solidifying his reputation as a consistent performer.

“We’ve talked about how Colorado is known as one of the best teams in the league, so we’ve got to bring our A-game tonight,” said Kings defenseman Joel Edmundson. “We haven’t been happy with our road record, so we’re looking to change that tonight.”

The Avalanche enter this game with a strong record of 9-1-1 in March and a three-game winning streak, recently defeating the Detroit Red Wings 5-2. Nathan MacKinnon, who recorded three assists in the season opener against the Kings, has accumulated 34 points against LA in his career.

This game presents a crucial opportunity for the Kings. With the Edmonton Oilers faltering without their star forwards and the Kings positioned two points ahead in the Pacific Division, a victory could help maintain their standing in a tight race.

Head Coach Jim Hiller highlighted the importance of this matchup: “We’re focused on Colorado because they’re a heck of a hockey club. It’s an opportunity to beat one of the top teams, and we know we need to play our best.”

Additionally, the Kings are addressing injuries in their lineup, with Tanner Jeannot and Alex Turcotte missing the trip to Denver. Consequently, Malott has a chance to step up and fill the void left by their absence.

“He plays the right way and gives 100 percent,” said Ontario Reign Head Coach Marco Sturm about Malott. “He’s a great addition to the team on and off the ice, and we’re excited to see what he can bring.”

As the Kings prepare for this significant matchup, they hope to continue their strong form and secure another vital win on the road. The stakes are high as both teams aim to solidify their playoff trajectories.