Kings Dominate Blackhawks in 3-1 Win

Following their 3-1 loss in Minnesota against the Wild, the Los Angeles Kings (37-21-9) arrived in the Windy City as they faced the Blackhawks (20-40-9). The Kings met the Blackhawks for third and final time this season. Spencer Knight escorted his team out while Darcy Kuemper stood in net for the second game in a row. 

Kings Lead 2-0 in Opening Period

Puck drop was underway as the Kings battled for early momentum. At the 11:15 point, Trevor Moore tipped in a wrist shot and put the Kings on the scoreboard 1-0. In a flurry of plays, Alex Turcotte netted his eighth of the season moments later. With Los Angeles leading 2-0 early, the inconsistent Blackhawks found themselves already trailing. Chicago's late attempt to produce scoring opportunities was cut short by the period's end, as both teams headed into intermission for the second period. 

And We’re Back...

With the Kings up 2-0, the second period promised more intense action and a challenge for the Kings to maintain their lead. Los Angeles took the initiative and displayed increased aggression, making it difficult for the Blackhawks to mount a comeback. Frank Nazar of the Blackhawks dominated the faceoff circle against the Kings tonight, winning critical neutral zone battles. Despite a series of impressive saves by Kuemper, Connor Bedard's slapshot ultimately beat him, bringing the score to 2-1 at 9:10. The Kings outshot the Blackhawks 26-12, as each team relentlessly tried to establish physical dominance. Los Angeles maintained control in the first period, but their performance declined in the second. 

Final Twenty in Windy City

The Blackhawks showed more activity in the third. By 13:36, though the Kings had outshot Chicago 27-16, they hadn't converted their opportunities. Their shots weren't translating into goals against a team they should have been able to beat, especially a team not in the playoff conversation. It has proven difficult for Los Angeles to consistently create scoring chances, which has been a key factor in their recent losses and especially when playing away from home. The third period saw the Kings effectively shut down the Blackhawks. With 21 seconds left, Joel Edmundson's goal secured a 3-1 victory. Securing two points, Los Angeles now prepares for a home game against the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday.