Kings Seek NHL Record as they Face Canadiens on the Road
ICARO Media Group
The Los Angeles Kings are set to take on the Montreal Canadiens tonight in a highly anticipated matchup as they aim to secure sole possession of an NHL record. Riding an impressive ten-game winning streak on the road, the Kings are eager to continue their remarkable form.
In their previous encounter last month in Los Angeles, forwards Trevor Moore and Pierre-Luc Dubois led the charge for the Kings, each contributing two points. While Dubois had an exceptional performance against Montreal, tallying 12 points in past matchups as a member of the Winnipeg Jets, his two points with the Kings marked a significant moment for him.
Preparation is key for the Kings, who held a full-team practice yesterday followed by an optional skate this morning in Montreal. Goaltender Cam Talbot is expected to make his return in the net tonight after Pheonix Copley's successful performances in the previous game against Montreal. Talbot boasts an impressive record against the Canadiens, with a lifetime record of 7-2-1, a .944 save percentage, and a stellar 1.48 goals-against average.
The Kings' lineup from their last game against Columbus featured key players such as Byfield, Kopitar, Kempe, and Dubois, among others. The return of forward Blake Lizotte, who has been sidelined due to injury, is highly anticipated and could add a significant boost to the Kings' offensive prowess. Additionally, defenseman Jacob Moverare remains an option for potential changes on the blueline.
In contrast, the Canadiens have recorded a 2-1-1 record in their four games played since their visit to Los Angeles just eleven days ago. Goaltender Samuel Montembeault is expected to start for the Canadiens, with a prior record of 2-0-0 against the Kings during his NHL career.
Former Kings forward Tanner Pearson is set to face off against his former team once again, while defenseman Mike Matheson has been a notable performer for Montreal, registering 11 points in November. Interestingly, the Canadiens currently possess the second-highest combined salary of injured players among all NHL teams, according to CapFriendly.
In their previous game against Columbus, the Kings faced some challenges in the first two periods before turning the tide in the third. Goals from Phillip Danault, Arthur Kaliyev, and Drew Doughty propelled them to victory, with a common thread being their direct style of play and focus on generating shots on net.
As they approach tonight's game against the Canadiens, the Kings are aware that a strong start is crucial to avoid finding themselves in a deficit going into the third period. With their eyes set on setting an NHL record, the Kings will undoubtedly bring their A-game as they look to extend their impressive road winning streak.
Only time will tell if the Kings can achieve their ultimate goal and claim victory in tonight's matchup against the Canadiens.