If the Kings were searching for a moment that hinted at them turning their season around, Thursday night delivered a big step towards that dramatically.
The Los Angeles Kings (17-14-9) picked up a thrilling 5-4 shootout win over the Minnesota Wild (25-10-8) in one of the most entertaining games of their season.
Defenseman Brandt Clarke delivered a statement and star performance, capping the night with the shootout winner, and showcased no shortage of sweat when he delivered the goal in the clutch.
Clarke said after the game that, despite Minnesota clawing their way back into the game, Los Angeles still believed they would hold on and win.
"Credit to our leadership group, they're incredible & I think it was a full, 20-man effort that got the job done. These are the ones that we're proud of."
In the second period, Corey Perry gave the Kings a 2-1 lead after a net-front finish set up by Quinton Byfield and Clarke. But despite Los Angeles extending its lead, it was never able to close the gap due to numerous penalties and turnovers that kept the door open, and the Wild capitalized to pull even again.
Third Period Chaos
The third period turned into pure chaos after a back-and-forth 40 minutes of hockey tied 2-2. Byfield restored the Kings' lead, only for Minnesota to yet again answer.
Then came one of the night's best highlights, Samuel Helenius buried his first goal of the season after a heck of a pass from Kevin Fiala, putting Los Angeles up 4-3.
Clarke Delivers the Final
The lead didn't last, as the Wild kept the game nervous for Los Angeles. A late breakdown from the Kings with under three minutes left in regulation tied the contest 4-4, eventually sending the game to overtime.
Los Angeles struggled in overtime once again to score a goal and finish the deal, sending it to a shootout decision. This is where Clarke finished his job. Clarke stepped in and calmly beat Jasper Wallstedt to seal it.
After tonights win, Byefield reflected on the ugly loss to Tampa Bay after another blown lead.
"Those losses are so tough, when you're right there and let them back in the game, it feels like you're giving them the game. Those ones sting, so it feels good to close out the game and get it done."
It was an entertaining goal and a great way to see Los Angeles elevate in the clutch, looking unfazed the whole time.
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