Matchup: Los Angeles Kings vs. Utah Hockey Club
Date: Saturday, February 22 @ 6:00 PM Pacific
Location: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
Follow the Game: Watch on FanDuel Sports Network, listen on ESPN LA App, and catch updates on Twitter: @dooleylak, @lakings
The Kings are ready to hit the ice after a break since February 9. Tonight marks the beginning of a homestand with three consecutive games at home. They aim to build on their previous success against the Utah Hockey Club, having beaten them 3-2 during their last encounter in October. Notably, defenseman Joel Edmundson shined in that game, scoring two goals.
Kings’ Update: The team had an optional morning skate in El Segundo to prepare. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper is expected to return tonight after missing a couple of games. He was strong in the earlier matchup, making 24 saves. Here’s the expected lineup:
- Turcotte – Kopitar – Kempe
- Foegele – Danault – Moore
- Fiala – Byfield – Laferriere
- Jeannot – Lewis
- Anderson – Gavrikov
- Edmundson – Doughty
- Moverare – Spence
- Clarke
Kuemper and Rittich will take turns in goal. Mikey Anderson returns tonight after missing four games due to injury. Drew Doughty is also back from the 4 Nations Face-Off. The Kings might utilize an 11-7 alignment, which allows for flexibility in defensive pairings.
Utah Hockey Club Update: Utah returns from their break after winning three of their last four games. Their expected lineup from practice includes some notable players, like former Kings defenseman Sean Durzi, making his comeback after a long injury layoff.
The Big Picture: The break came at a perfect time for the Kings, who were feeling the fatigue after a tough stretch. Players like Anze Kopitar felt the need for a recharge. Practices since returning have shown a renewed energy, and the Kings are eager to channel this into their performance tonight.
With a challenging schedule ahead—29 games in just over two months—it’s crucial for the Kings to make the most of their home games. They will face a mix of back-to-backs and minimal rest days, but fortunately, 19 of those games will be at home.
Tonight’s game is not just about points; it’s about setting the tone for this intense stretch ahead. Both teams will be looking to shake off any rust from their break and come out strong. Expect both squads to bring high energy as they battle it out on the ice.
It’s great to see the Kings back at home, gearing up for three exciting games. Let’s see how they perform against Utah!
Check out this related article: Nikola Jokic Raises Concerns: Did the Nuggets ‘Trick Themselves’ with a 9-Game Win Streak?
Source link