LOS ANGELES — The Kings were overwhelmed by the tempo in the loss to the Avalanche, 4-1.
Opening night of the NHL season began as the Kings looked to display their prowess in Los Angeles. However, they were in for a rude awakening as the Avalanche put on an offensive showcase.
“What they did better than us is that they checked us better than we did. They really played a strong checking game, didn’t give us much time and space,” Coach Hilled said. “We needed somebody to either one get a good forecheck going and just try to create something ugly down there or make a play, and we were not able to do either of those things.”
Colorado dominated forecheck as the Kings could not get the puck out of their own D-zone. Los Angeles was ruffled from the pressure as this pushed the tempo for the Avalanche.
Speed was crucial for the Avalanche as this dictated the pace of the game, especially in the second period. Colorado was so quick, dashing through the defense as they scored three goals in the second period.
This 3-0 deficit was too much for the Kings to handle as the Avalanche ran LA off the ice. The Kings only scored a goal when they were down four goals and the game was out of reach.
Martin Necas was the star for Colorado as he dialed in two goals. Nathan Mackinnon and Artturi Lehkonen also matched Necas with two points of their own.
Mackinnon was the main playmaker as he dished out two assists. While Lehkonen recorded both a goal and an assist.
Redemption is vital for the Kings as they head to Vegas in a back-to-back. Los Angeles must respond better against another juggernaut to get this season on track.
For the Kings to secure their first win of the year, they have to keep up with the firepower from Vegas. Los Angeles must execute on the forecheck to rack up their first win of the season.
