LOS ANGELES– The Kings scored two goals in the second period to defeat the Kraken 2-1.
The first period started off scoreless, as neither offense could generate many scoring opportunities.
The Kings and Kraken had the same number of hits and blocked shots. Both teams brought the defensive intensity to each other.
This would lead to very few shots throughout the game. Los Angeles had 21 shots on goal, while Seattle only had 20.
Even though both teams were anemic on offense, the Kings did some damage in the second period.
Anže Kopitar set up the two big scoring plays that would give the Kings momentum. Kopitar collected two points after he delivered an assist on both plays.
Five minutes into the second period, a goal from Adrian Kempe gave Los Angeles the first goal.
Quickly after the Kempe goal, Seattle would receive a penalty for goalie interference. This gave Los Angeles a power play where Quinton Byfield would deliver another goal.
The Kings would not only score on their sole power play, but would also stop the Kraken on their chances as well.
Los Angles had a 100% penalty kill percentage on the three power plays from the Kraken.
The second period explosion and the power play difference is what gave the Kings the upper hand.
The Kraken were held scoreless until 1:30 left in the final period. Brandon Montour would provide a goal to finally put Seattle on the board.
Although Seattle scored, there wasn’t another opportunity left to tie. The Kings sealed off the victory.
In the losing effort, Oliver Bjorkstand and Yanni Gourde would receive an assist for the Montour goal.
Los Angeles will look to defeat another division rival on Monday. The Kings will head to San Jose to face off against the Sharks.
