Can Panthers Maintain Momentum in Back-to-Back, Kings Seek Consistency After Losses
Florida Panthers vs Los Angeles Kings: 2024-25 NHL Preview and Prediction
The Florida Panthers (27-17-3) are set to face the Los Angeles Kings (25-14-5) in a crucial cross-conference showdown at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA, on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. This game marks the first meeting of the season between these two teams, who split their two-game set last year, each winning on their home ice. With the Kings entering as slight -118 favorites and a total set at 5.5 goals, this game promises to be a tightly contested battle as both teams look to build momentum.
Florida Panthers: Can They Keep Up Their Strong Play Despite Back-to-Back Games?
The Panthers are aiming to bounce back after a recent 5-2 loss to the Detroit Red Wings. Despite outshooting Detroit 43-20 in that matchup, Florida couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities, with Sergei Bobrovsky allowing four goals on just 15 shots in his brief stint between the pipes. In contrast, Spencer Knight stepped up in their most recent game against the Anaheim Ducks, securing his second shutout of the season with a 3-0 victory. Florida outshot Anaheim 45-34 in what was a solid all-around performance.
Bobrovsky (18-11-2) has posted a 2.86 GAA and .869 SV% this season and was expected to start against Anaheim on Tuesday. Knight (9-6-1) has been more reliable with a 2.45 GAA and a .905 SV%, and he is slated to take the net against the Kings on Wednesday.
The Panthers’ defense has been middle-of-the-pack this season, ranking 17th in the NHL in goals allowed per game (3.02). Offensively, Florida sits at 11th in the league, averaging 3.17 goals per game. Florida will need to find consistency in both areas to compete with a strong Los Angeles squad, especially in a back-to-back game scenario.
Los Angeles Kings: Searching for Consistency After Recent Losses
The Kings are coming off a rough patch, having won only one of their last five games. Their most recent defeat came at the hands of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who dominated the Kings 5-1. In that game, David Rittich was in goal, surrendering five goals on 32 shots. The Kings struggled to generate offense, tallying just one goal despite having three power-play opportunities. Adrian Kempe scored his 23rd goal of the season, but it wasn’t enough to prevent the lopsided loss.
Los Angeles’ offensive woes have been apparent, as the team is ranked 19th in goals scored per game (2.93). However, their defense remains one of the league’s best, ranking third in goals allowed per game (2.48). Darcy Kuemper, the Kings’ starting goaltender, has been stellar this season with a 13-4-5 record, a 2.10 GAA, and a .922 SV%. Kuemper will be the key to the Kings’ success against the Panthers, as they look to bounce back and end their two-game losing streak.
Conclusion
The Florida Panthers and Los Angeles Kings enter this cross-conference matchup with a lot on the line. With both teams needing a win to get back on track, this game promises to be an exciting one. Florida will rely on its high-scoring offense, while the Kings will count on their stout defense and goaltending to keep them in the game. The battle between these two teams will likely come down to which squad can execute better on both ends of the ice. Expect a competitive, hard-fought game with Los Angeles pulling out the victory in a close contest.
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