So, you’re saying there’s a chance…
Facing the defending Stanley Cup Champions on their home turf didn’t exactly sound like a challenge the Kings were up for just a few weeks ago. And despite LA’s improved play of late, coach Todd McLellan wasn’t interested in any pre-game talk about Thursday night’s game being any sort of a ‘measuring stick’ event for this club.
A potential two-point night in the middle of the season. That’s all that was at stake… allegedly.
Once again, Gabe Vilardi opened up the scoring; giving the Kings an early 1-0 advantage. Halfway through the second period, Phil Danault had them up 2-1.
Then, as Colorado has done to so many teams in recent years, they turned the game around with three goals in less than three minutes. With the Avs leading 4-2 after 40 minutes, the outlook for McLellan’s group didn’t look good.
However, just like they’ve done countless times in 2022-23, the Kings found a way to pick themselves up off the mat and battle back. Alex Iafallo, goal. Sean Walker, goal. Tie game, 4-4, and off to overtime.
That wasn’t enough time to decide things, so Viktor Arvidsson and Adrian Kempe took things into their own hands during the shootout. And, yes, Pheonix Copley helped the Kings earn another two points. He’s now 8-1 since being recalled from AHL Ontario.
Below are select highlights from Thursday night’s game:
Additional Post-Game Notes:
Coach McLellan sounding off after shootout victory 🔈@LAKings | #LAKingsLive | @CarrlynBathe pic.twitter.com/DUZWrYbvOb
— Bally Sports West (@BallySportWest) December 30, 2022
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