The LA Kings have finally broken free from their five-game losing streak, emerging victorious with a 2-0 shutout against the Calgary Flames at Crypto.com Arena on Saturday night. This win couldn't have come at a better time, providing a much-needed boost of confidence after a tough defeat on Thursday.
The first period was an intense battle, with both teams firing off 13 shots each. The Flames created some dangerous chances, but Kings' netminder Anton Forsberg was there to make some crucial saves, including a breakaway stop on Matt Coronato. It was a tense start to the game, with neither team willing to give an inch.
But here's where it gets interesting. The Kings found their rhythm in the second period, and it was a beautiful display of teamwork. Forward Trevor Moore showcased his skills, curling out of the corner to create space and then working the puck to Quinton Byfield behind the net. Byfield's vision and skill were on full display as he found Alex Laferriere in a prime scoring position. Although Laferriere's initial shot was denied, he was quick to pounce on the rebound, burying his 14th goal of the season and giving the Kings a well-deserved 1-0 lead.
As the third period progressed, the Kings maintained their composure and focus. Forward Adrian Kempe sealed the deal with an empty-net goal, assisted by the talented Artemi Panarin. This 2-0 victory was a true team effort, with every player contributing to the success.
Hear from the stars of the game: Alex Laferriere, Anton Forsberg, and Head Coach Jim Hiller, as they reflect on this crucial win and the impact it will have on the team's momentum moving forward.
Alex Laferriere on Anton Forsberg's performance:
"He's an absolute rock in net. His presence gives us so much confidence. We know he's got our backs, and he's been a consistent force for us all season. It's a huge boost to have him back there."
On breaking the losing streak:
"When losses pile up, it can be a tough mental battle. But we knew we had to fight through it and get that first win. It's a huge relief, and we're determined to build on this momentum."
On the team's overall performance:
"Top to bottom, everyone stepped up. Guys like Ward, Helenius, and Mallot, who have been in and out of the lineup, showed up big time tonight. Their energy and work ethic are infectious, and it really lifted the entire team."
On improved puck management:
"We simplified our game, and it paid off. Sometimes after a break, it's easy to overcomplicate things, but we focused on keeping it simple, and it opened up opportunities for us."
On his line with Byfield and Moore:
"We're a hard-working trio. We love to forecheck and create turnovers. Q's speed and skill are a huge asset, and we want to utilize that more. It opens up the ice for us, and we can really dominate in the offensive zone."
Jim Hiller on the importance of the win:
"It was a much-needed victory. We had to put the last game behind us and focus on the present. The second period was excellent, and we maintained our intensity in the third. We created quality chances and defended well."
On the team's discipline:
"It's rare to see a game with no penalties. There was some physical play early on, but it was all clean and well-fought. Both teams brought their A-game, and it was an entertaining 2-0 contest."
On Byfield's line:
"They were outstanding. Byfield's line contributed in all zones. But honestly, everyone stepped up. It was a collective effort, and I'm proud of the way we played tonight."
On Forsberg's performance:
"He made some crucial saves early on, especially in the first period. It settled us down and got us back into our groove. He's a key part of our success."
On carrying the momentum:
"Colorado is up next, and they're at the top of the league. It's a tough challenge, but we'll need to maintain our defensive tightness. They can score quickly, so we have to be focused. But we also need to push forward and create chances. Panarin was dangerous tonight, and I'm confident he'll find the back of the net soon."
On the defense without Doughty:
"They had a solid performance. We blocked a lot of shots, and there weren't many rebounds to contend with. We defended well against their three-on-two situations, which was a key improvement from our last few games."
Notes:
- Alex Laferriere's 14th goal of the season puts him in sole possession of third place for most goals by a Kings skater through the first 59 games of the 2025-26 season. He now has points in both home games against Calgary this season.
- Adrian Kempe's 22nd goal of the season seals the shutout victory and extends his scoring streak against the Flames to seven consecutive home games. This is the longest active streak against the Flames in franchise history.
- Quinton Byfield's 20th assist of the year solidifies his third consecutive 20-assist season.
- Trevor Moore's ninth assist of the season comes on Laferriere's goal, giving him 16 points on the year.
- Artemi Panarin's 41st assist of the campaign and third helper in as many games with the Kings is a testament to his impact. He joins an elite group of undrafted players with 10 or more 60-point seasons.
- Anton Forsberg's shutout performance was his second of the season and 10th of his career, making him the ninth Swedish goaltender to reach this milestone in the NHL.
The Kings will practice tomorrow at 11 AM at the Toyota Sports Performance Center, looking to continue building on this momentum and taking on the challenges that lie ahead.
