LOS ANGELES — The Kings failed to execute on scoring chances against the Devils, 4-1.
After a narrow loss to Detroit in a shootout, the Kings were eager to shake off that loss. With 6 of the last seven games being decided by one goal, a close game was expected.
On paper, it felt like the Kings should’ve dominated New Jersey. The Kings had double the shots on goal and three more power plays.
Nevertheless, the Kings blew many opportunities to score. Los Angeles only had one goal on 44 shots, while the Devils notched in three goals on 22 shots.
Not only did the Kings fail to score on the power plays, but New Jersey was better in those stretches. The Devils dominated the penalty kills and racked up two short-handed goals.
Jacob Markstrom was an immovable object as he recorded 43 saves and a .977 save percentage for the Devils. Dawson Mercer brought the firepower with two goals.
In spite of the loss, Andrei Kuzmenko scored the only goal for the Kings. Anže Kopitar and Alex Laferriere were both credited with an assist on the score.
On Tuesday, the Kings will have another game at Crypto.com arena against the Jets. The Kings must step up the play in order to secure their first home victory of the season.
Power plays for the Kings will be important against the best penalty kill team in the league. Los Angeles must take advantage of their scoring opportunities to defeat Winnipeg.
