Although the Kings fell 4-1 to the Predators on Thursday night, there may be bigger concerns on the horizon. Already without forward Viktor Arvidsson (again), defenseman Mikey Anderson was injured early in the third period and did not return. Coach Jim Hiller did not have an update immediately following the game. Obviously, losing a top pairing guy on the blueline for any significant time would be another challenge for LA to overcome down the stretch.
More couch reporting. Here’s the replay of that last shift.
Hope he’s okpic.twitter.com/DDWs0EOtkP
— Carrlyn Bathe Hammer (@CarrlynBathe) February 23, 2024
As for the game itself, LA couldn’t generate much offensively early in the first period, which was surprising given that the opening frame is usually when the Kings have been at their best all season.
Meanwhile, the Predators were quick to take advantage of any lack of pressure from the Kings. Yakov Trenin’s opening goal was the direct result of a defensive breakdown by the Kings – one of many mental errors that they made throughout the game.
These mistakes and a lack of quality chances offensively are ultimately what cost the Kings a shot at two points on Thursday evening. At times, it looked like LA was about to gain some momentum; only to fail to connect on passes and end up turning the puck over.
The Kings lone tally came on a power play goal from Kevin Fiala. It was the first 5-on-3 goal for LA all season and continued a recent trend of success on the man-advantage by Hiller’s squad.
Two empty-net goals for Nashville sealed the deal, and camouflaged that it was largely a one goal game most of the evening.
In-Game Changes: In his brief time as head coach, Jim Hiller has frequently shaken up the line combinations mid-game. Blake Lizotte (who returned on Thursday after a 14-game absence), Alex Laferriere, and Alex Turcotte all spent a portion of Thursday’s contest on the third line alongside PL Dubois and Quinton Byfield. It’s still very early in Hiller’s tenure, yet he clearly does not hesitate to make mid-game adjustments where he sees fit.
Stat Sheet Takeaways: LA had eight turnovers throughout the course of Thursday’s game. This stifled their offensive production and provided Nashville with several great opportunities. Limiting giveaways is a must for any team with postseason aspirations, and it will likely remain a focus area during upcoming practices and games.
Penalty Kill: Even when they’re not winning, the PK continues to be the most consistent part of LA’s game. They went 3-for-3 vsm Nashville and remain first in the NHL with a success rate of 86.7%. As shown again on Thursday, it’s an aspect of the Kings game plan that keeps them in most contests even when the offense isn’t clicking.
What’s Next?: The Kings will square-off against the Anaheim Ducks on Saturday night. LA is looking to make it eight consecutive wins against their crosstown rivals, dating back to the 2021-22 season. After Saturday’s contest, the Kings will hit the road and play three games in Western Canada, with playoff implications looming large in each of those matchups.
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