LOS ANGELES, CA– The Kings dominated in every aspect to stifle the top-seeded Capitals, 3-2.
The Capitals had all the storylines heading into this game. They were the best team in the league and Alex Ovechkin is nine goals away from breaking the all-time goals record.
While Washington had the storylines on their side, they didn’t have the hearts of the Kings. Los Angeles was fluent for a full 60 minutes, and it looked like the Kings were actually the team going for the Presidents Cup.
“We’ve been doing a great job of embracing the challenges of playing these top teams all year. We get up for them and I think they bring out our best hockey,” said Darcy Kuemper “We feel especially on home ice, no matter who we’re playing if we play our game were gonna come out on front.”
Darcy Kuemper had a spectacular showcase in the shutout performance. Kuemper saved all 21 shots on goal. This is the third game this season that Kuemper has accumulated a 1.000 save percentage.
As great as the goaltending was all game, the offense had a great third period. When it was just a one-goal game, the Kings looked towards Kevin Fiala to seal the Capitals’ fate.
Fiala converted on a power-play goal and dished out an assist to help Los Angeles put two goals on the scoreboard. Fiala had two points, which led all players from both teams.
Physicality, goaltending and a power play goal, the Kings excelled in every aspect that they needed to. This complete game from Los Angeles resulted in their most impressive win of the entire season.
Despite the loss, Washington received a good performance from their defenseman. Martin Fehervary recorded three blocked shots, which was the most totaled in the game.
After defeating the best team in the league, the Kings are clicking on all cylinders. An easier task awaits Los Angeles as they will now try to build off this impressive victory.
On Saturday, the Kings will face off against the struggling Predators at Crypto.com Arena. However, the Kings can’t overlook any opponent if they want to continue their hot streak.
