Sat Nov 23 21:00:00 UTC 2024: **Los Angeles Kings Look to Break Power-Play Drought Against Seattle Kraken**

LOS ANGELES, CA – The Los Angeles Kings (10-7-3) aim to snap their power-play slump when they face the Seattle Kraken (10-9-1) in a Saturday matinee at Crypto.com Arena. Puck drop is at 1:00 PM Pacific.

The Kings, coming off a frustrating 1-0 loss to Buffalo where they failed to convert on five power-play opportunities, are focused on improving their special teams. Despite generating numerous high-danger chances at 5-on-5 against Buffalo, the Kings’ lack of finishing ability remains a concern. Head Coach Jim Hiller remains confident, believing the team’s shooting percentage will inevitably rise. The Kings will continue with their five-forward power-play unit, featuring Adrian Kempe at the point, Alex Laferriere and Kevin Fiala on the wings, Anze Kopitar in the bumper, and Quinton Byfield in front of the net.

Goaltender David Rittich is expected to start for the Kings, while Joey Daccord is projected to start for the Kraken after his shutout performance against Nashville. The Kraken, on a two-game California road trip, will be a tough opponent. Seattle forward Daniel Sprong, recently reacquired from Vancouver, scored his first goal back with the team midweek.

Despite the recent loss, Anze Kopitar expressed optimism about the Kings’ first quarter of the season, highlighting their strong record and playoff position. He acknowledged room for improvement but emphasized their competitiveness. Meanwhile, defenseman Caleb Jones continues his recovery from an upper-body injury and is skating individually.

Trevor Moore, who led the NHL in goals against Seattle last season, will be a key player to watch for the Kings. The Kings’ lineup is expected to remain largely unchanged from recent games, with the possible exception of Akil Thomas potentially replacing a player from the fourth line.

The game will mark the final contest of a three-game homestand for the Kings, part of a stretch featuring seven of nine games at Crypto.com Arena.

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