Sport

LA Kings Faceoff Against Flames: Point Streaks and Debuts to Watch

2024-11-11

Author: Olivia

Who: Los Angeles Kings (9-4-3) vs. Calgary Flames (7-5-3)
What: 2024-25 Regular-Season Game
When: Monday, November 11 @ 5:30 PM Pacific
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary, AB
How to Follow: Watch live on FanDuel Sports Network, listen via ESPN LA App, follow on Twitter: @dooleylak & @lakings
Tonight’s Matchup: A Crucial Battle in Calgary

The Los Angeles Kings hit the ice tonight in Calgary, kicking off a two-game road trip. The Kings are looking to improve their record after struggling in this arena last season, having lost both encounters against the Flames 4-2. The Flames have dominated the Kings recently, winning five of the last six matchups at the Scotiabank Saddledome.

Key Players to Watch:

Forwards Kevin Fiala and Anze Kopitar each led the Kings last season's point race against Calgary with five points. Fiala notably achieved multiple points in both outings against the Flames.

Kings Vitals:

Following a full morning skate today, the Kings are expected to field the same 18 skaters and two goaltenders from their recent victory against Columbus. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper, who has an impressive career record against Calgary (8-2-1), boasts a stellar .951 save percentage and a 1.72 goals-against average versus them.

Projected Lines:

Lewis – Kopitar – Kempe Moore – Danault – Fiala Foegele – Byfield – Laferriere Lee – Helenius – Thomas

Jim Hiller has indicated a reluctance to alter the successful Foegele/Byfield/Laferriere combination, while also expressing confidence in the inexperienced fourth line.

Calgary Flames Vitals:

The Flames, currently four points behind the Kings in the Pacific Division, are off to a solid start. Key defenseman Rasmus Andersson leads Calgary with 11 points this season, tying him for the second most goals among defensemen in the NHL.

Streaking Kings:

Kings forwards Trevor Moore and Phillip Danault have each extended their point streaks to five games after a shorthanded goal against Columbus. Moore, who started slow this season, has come alive with six points in his last six games, while Danault has also turned his fortunes around.

A Special Debut:

Tonight's game is particularly special for rookie Samuel Helenius, who will play his first NHL road game in the same arena where his father, Sami Helenius, made his debut in 1996. This connection adds a poignant layer to an already thrilling matchup.

Looking Ahead:

The Kings not only aim for a victory but also strive to build on their recent successes while maintaining strong performances from their key players. With it being David Rittich and Trevor Lewis's first return to the Saddledome since the loss of their former teammate Johnny Gaudreau, emotions will be high.

Don't Miss Tonight's Action!

The Kings and Flames face off at 5:30 PM Pacific—tune in for what promises to be an electrifying showdown! Who will come out on top, and what will be the impacts on the season as both teams seek to solidify their positions in the Pacific Division? Stay tuned!