Kings Demand More from Stars: One-Goal Games, Armia’s Return, Injury Updates
The Los Angeles Kings are set to face the Anaheim Ducks in a highly anticipated rematch on January 17, 2026. This regular-season matchup is game 48 of the 82-game series, taking place at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. Fans can catch the action via the FanDuel Sports Network and the ESPN LA App, or follow updates on Twitter from @dooleylak and @lakings.
Matchup Overview
The Kings and Ducks are concluding a home-and-home series with this contest. In their previous encounter, Kings’ forward Quinton Byfield scored a goal, tying for the season lead with four points against the Ducks. Notably, Alex Laferriere leads the Kings with four goals against Anaheim this season, and his tally of seven goals over the last two years is the most in the NHL for this matchup.
Kings Vitals
- The Kings did not hold a morning skate ahead of the game due to the back-to-back schedule.
- Darcy Kuemper started last night; Anton Forsberg is expected to be in goal against the Ducks.
- Forsberg previously made 25 saves in a decisive 6-1 victory over the Ducks on December 27.
Head Coach Jim Hiller hinted at possible adjustments in the lineup after the Kings’ recent struggles. They have lost five of their last six games. Key players Anze Kopitar, Trevor Moore, and Corey Perry are unlikely to return tonight, which restricts potential changes to the lineup.
Ducks Vitals
The Anaheim Ducks are coming off back-to-back wins, including their recent victory over the Kings. Notable absences include Leo Carlsson, who is sidelined for 3-5 weeks, and Troy Terry, placed on Injured Reserve. Despite these setbacks, rookie Beckett Sennecke has performed admirably, leading the Ducks with two assists in their last game and accumulating 37 points this season.
Key Storylines
The Kings have experienced a rough patch, managing only one win in their last six outings. Their record in one-goal games is noteworthy, as they have played 29 such games this season, the most in the NHL. As they push for improved performance, much attention is focused on Adrian Kempe, who is in a goal drought spanning six games.
Jim Hiller emphasized that the team’s best players must elevate their game for the Kings to find success. Kempe recognized the need to capitalize on scoring opportunities, stating that this has been a persistent issue. Furthermore, the defensive pairing of Mikey Anderson and Drew Doughty has also struggled, prompting potential changes on the backend.
Player Spotlight: Joel Armia
Joel Armia made a strong return from injury, contributing a goal and an assist in his first game back. His presence is expected to boost the Kings as they navigate these challenges. With an impressive +2 rating in the last match, Armia’s consistency will be key as the team looks to stabilize its performance.
Injury Updates
The injury situation remains tenuous for the Kings. While there may be possibilities for returns next week, the game against the Ducks comes too soon for many injured players. Jim Hiller is expected to provide updates closer to game time tonight.
As the Kings look to decisively finish the season series against the Ducks, the stakes are high for both their individual performances and overall team coordination. The outcome of tonight’s game could be pivotal in steering their season trajectory. Fans eagerly await what promises to be an engaging clash against a divisional rival.
