After a challenging road trip where the Los Angeles Kings dropped 4 of 7 games, the team returned to home ice with a vengeance, securing two dramatic comeback victories on back-to-back nights.
The first win came against the Edmonton Oilers last Saturday. Trailing 3-2 heading into the third period, the Kings rallied as Tanner Jeannot scored early in the final frame, assisted by Jordan Spence, to force overtime. In the extra period, Quinton Byfield delivered the game-winning goal, with an assist from Phillip Danault, sealing a 4-3 victory.
The following night, the Kings faced the Philadelphia Flyers and found themselves down 4-2 in the second period. Warren Foegele sparked the comeback with an unassisted goal to cut the deficit to 4-3. In the third period, Anze Kopitar took charge, scoring twice to complete the rally. His first goal, assisted by Quinton Byfield, tied the game, and his second set up by Adrian Kempe on a power play clinching a thrilling 5-4 victory. The Kings currently have a record of 22-10 with 49 points.
In the post-game interview following the Flyers win, Kopitar praised the team's resilience in overcoming deficits on consecutive nights. "We just kept sticking with it. A lot of work, really. We showed the character and grit to come back," he said. Head Coach Jim Hiller echoed those sentiments, particularly highlighting Kopitar's leadership and ability to excel under a heavy workload. "He is who he is. You get him out there, and good things happen," Hiller said, referencing Kopitar's effort after facing Connor McDavid the night before.
The Kings' power plays, which has struggled this season (currently at 16.7%), saw a much-needed breakthrough with Kopitar's game-winning goal against the Flyers. "It makes all the difference in the world," Kopitar said, emphasizing the importance of converting in key moments.
With a seven-game home winning streak, the Kings have showcased their potential at home, but to solidify themselves as playoff contenders, they must find consistent success on the road.
Next, the Kings host the Lightning at 6 p.m. on Saturday and the flames on Wednesday, at 7:30 p.m.
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