Thrilling Preseason Finale: Kings Triumph Over Ducks 5-4 in Overtime with Danault, Armia, and Hiller Leading the Charge
LA Kings Conclude Preseason with Thrilling Overtime Victory Over Anaheim Ducks
The Los Angeles Kings wrapped up their preseason with an impressive record of 5-2-0 after a nail-biting 5-4 overtime victory against the Anaheim Ducks. This exhibition finale showcased a blend of skill and resilience as the Kings demonstrated their readiness for the upcoming NHL season.
First Period Dominance Sets the Tone
The Kings wasted no time in establishing a commanding presence on the ice. Just five minutes into the game, forward Quinton Byfield opened the scoring with a power play goal. Positioned in the crucial bumper spot, Byfield received a pass from Andrei Kuzmenko and executed a low shot that caught Anaheim goaltender Lukas Dostal off-guard, putting the Kings on the board early.
Midway through the first period, the Kings extended their lead to 2-0. Defenseman Brandt Clarke executed a well-placed D-to-D pass to Joel Edmundson, who unleashed a powerful one-timer. Despite Dostal’s save, Phillip Danault was quick to capitalize on the rebound, converting it into a goal.
Just before the first intermission, the Kings further solidified their lead with a third goal. Clarke, showcasing his offensive skills, facilitated a play that allowed Warren Foegele to find the back of the net, leaving the Kings ahead 3-0 at the end of the first period.
Strong Defensive Play and Continued Scoring
Following a scoreless second period, the Kings kicked off the final frame with their fourth goal. A series of sharp passes from defensemen Cody Ceci and Brian Dumoulin set up Danault for another one-timer, bringing his goal tally to two for the evening.
Anaheim Ducks Rally in the Third Period
The Ducks began their comeback midway through the third period, with Mikael Granlund scoring a wraparound goal that was initially disallowed but later confirmed by the Situation Room in Toronto. Anaheim swiftly closed the gap to 4-2 when Leo Carlsson executed a slick move down the right wing, beating Kings goaltender Darcy Kuemper with a high shot.
In a dramatic turn of events, Anaheim scored two goals in quick succession, tying the game at four. Carlsson was instrumental, scoring one goal and assisting Mason McTavish’s equalizer.
Overtime Thrills – Kings Take the Win
As the game headed into overtime, the Kings faced an early challenge with a 4-on-3 penalty kill but successfully held off the Ducks. Forward Kevin Fiala completed a stunning give-and-go with Foegele, scoring the decisive goal and securing a thrilling 5-4 victory for the Kings.
Player Insights and Future Challenges
Post-game comments revealed strong team chemistry, with players reflecting on their performance and ambitions for the season. Danault remarked on the solid power play execution while Coach Jim Hiller acknowledged the lessons learned from the game, emphasizing the need for consistency as they prepare for the regular season.
Hiller expressed appreciation for Joel Armia’s adaptability and performance, particularly noting his effectiveness in various roles throughout the preseason.
What’s Next for the LA Kings?
The Kings will take a breather before returning to practice on Monday, October 6, at 11 AM at the Toyota Sports Performance Center, as they prepare for their upcoming matchups against formidable opponents in the regular season. The excitement builds as fans await the Kings’ strategies to translate their preseason momentum into success on the ice.
