Kings Seek Redemption Against Blackhawks After Two Losses

CHICAGO, Ill. — The Los Angeles Kings aim to bounce back tonight against the Chicago Blackhawks, concluding a challenging three-game road trip after suffering losses to the Dallas Stars and St. Louis Blues.

In their previous matchup against the Blackhawks this season, the Kings faced a 4-3 shootout defeat in Los Angeles. Forward Alex Laferriere led the Kings in that game, scoring two goals, while forward Phillip Danault contributed with a goal and an assist. Danault has historically performed well against Chicago, accumulating 16 points (8 goals, 8 assists) in 17 career games.

The Kings held a full-team morning skate today in Chicago, following a day off from practice. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper is expected to start tonight, boasting an 8-2-2 record against the Blackhawks, along with a .921 save percentage and a 2.21 goals-against average in his career.

In terms of lineup adjustments, there was no confirmation earlier today, but head coach Jim Hiller indicated the potential for changes prior to the game. Last game, the Kings opted for a 12-forward and 6-defenseman configuration. Defensemen Kyle Burroughs and Brandt Clarke were healthy scratches, which could change depending on tonight’s game plan.

Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are coming off a 6-3 victory over the Anaheim Ducks and are also ready for their first game in a three-match homestand. According to Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times, goaltender Spencer Knight, recently acquired in a trade with the Florida Panthers, is anticipated to make his Blackhawks debut this evening.

Tonight’s game represents a critical opportunity for the Kings as they look to regain their form. After allowing five goals in their recent loss to the Stars, the Kings acknowledged their need to tighten up defensively. Defenseman Joel Edmundson expressed the importance of returning to their established style of play: “We’ve got to get back to competing right now, especially in the d-zone, swarming them, tracking, all of that stuff that makes us a hard team to play against.”

Forward Alex Turcotte echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for the team’s desperation and intensity to increase: “I think the only way out is to work yourself out of it, give max effort and eventually, good things will happen.”

With the stakes heightened, the Kings are aware of the significance of securing two points tonight. As the players approach a crucial boundary of the season, they must leverage their previous successes this year to guide them through adversity. The Kings hope to show renewed energy and determination at the United Center, starting a path toward recovery.

Tonight’s matchup between the Kings and Blackhawks is set for a 5:30 p.m. Pacific time start.