Wed Apr 30 02:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Kings’ Third-Period Collapse Threatens Playoff Hopes
**Los Angeles, CA** – The Los Angeles Kings, boasting the NHL’s eighth-best third-period goal differential during the regular season, are struggling to maintain leads in the playoffs. Their +16 regular season margin has dramatically shifted to a -6 in the first four games of their opening-round series against the Edmonton Oilers, currently tied 2-2.
While the Kings have led in the third period of all four games, including by multiple goals in three, they’ve surrendered those advantages in Games 3 and 4, allowing the Oilers to snatch comeback victories. Game 4, a particularly painful 3-1 loss after a dominant first 40 minutes, highlighted the Kings’ vulnerability.
Despite coach Jim Hiller pointing to bounces and key moments that could have swung the games in the Kings’ favor, the team’s inability to close out leads is a major concern. While some attribute the collapses to passive play in the third period, players like Phillip Danault hinted at the difficulties of transitioning from prolonged defensive efforts to offensive attacks. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper emphasized the need to maintain aggressive play even with a lead.
While the Kings outplayed the Oilers in high-danger chances in the third period of Game 4, Edmonton controlled possession and attempts, altering the game’s flow. Edmonton forward Leon Draisaitl’s post-game comments about the Kings “sitting back” are disputed, particularly considering their strong first two periods in Game 4.
The Kings face a critical Game 5 at home on Tuesday. This series echoes past playoff disappointments, mirroring similar late-game collapses in previous seasons. While the Kings still hold home-ice advantage, the opportunity to take control of the series has diminished, leaving a narrow path to victory. Their ability to overcome this recurring issue will determine if they can advance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
First Piper 