Los Angeles Kings Host Vegas Golden Knights in Crucial Pacific Division Matchup

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The Los Angeles Kings are set to host the Vegas Golden Knights at Crypto.com Arena in a crucial Pacific Division battle. This matchup will be the third of four meetings between the two teams this season, with each team having won on home ice in their previous encounters. The Kings will be looking to build on their strong home record, where they have posted an impressive 18-3-2 record this season. Forward Warren Foegele has been a key contributor in the Kings' previous games against the Golden Knights, scoring a goal in both matches, while Anze Kopitar and Brandt Clarke have led the team with three points each.

The Kings held an optional morning skate on the day of the game, following a full-team practice the previous day. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper is expected to start in goal for the Kings, bringing a lifetime record of 7-7-3 against the Golden Knights, with a save percentage of .928 and a goals-against average of 2.35. The Kings' lineup is expected to remain unchanged from their previous game against Utah, with the team rolling with 11 forwards and seven defensemen. Forward Adrian Kempe, who did not practice with the team the previous day, is expected to play against the Golden Knights.

The Golden Knights, on the other hand, are coming off a 3-1 win over the Vancouver Canucks and will be looking to extend their winning streak. They will be without forwards William Karlsson and Cole Schwindt, who are both on injured reserve, as well as defenseman Shea Theodore, who is out "week-to-week" with an injury. Forward Tomas Hertl has been a key player for the Golden Knights, with five points in two games against the Kings this season, and will be looking to continue his strong form. The Golden Knights' lineup is expected to feature a mix of experienced players and young talent, with Adin Hill starting in goal.

The Kings' defense will be a key factor in the game, with the team's defensive pairing of Drew Doughty and Joel Edmundson expected to play a crucial role. Doughty, who has been praised for his communication and vocal leadership, will be looking to build on his strong performance in the Kings' previous game against Utah. The team's young players, such as Alex Laferriere, will also be looking to make an impact, with Laferriere's speed and hustle being key assets for the Kings.

The game is expected to be a low-scoring affair, with both teams boasting strong defensive records. The Kings have hit the under in 47 of their last 86 games, while the Golden Knights have been stingy on the road, allowing just 2.5 goals per game. The Kings will be looking to rise to the occasion and secure a crucial win in the Pacific Division standings. Some key statistics to watch include:

• Kings' home record: 18-3-2
• Golden Knights' road record: 14-11-3
• Kings' goals allowed per game: 2.5
• Golden Knights' goals scored per game: 3.2
• Darcy Kuemper's save percentage: .917
• Adin Hill's goals-against average: 2.35