One Game Doesn’t Define a Season: LA Kings Look to Bounce Back Against Vancouver Canucks
But here's where it gets controversial... While some fans might be panicking after the Kings' shootout loss to the Ducks, head coach Jim Hiller is taking a measured approach, stating, "I don’t want to overreact to the outcome, because I thought we played a pretty good hockey game." Is this the right mindset, or should the team be more concerned about their recent struggles in close games?
The Los Angeles Kings (11-6-7) are set to host the Vancouver Canucks (10-13-2) in Game 25 of the 2025 regular season on Friday, November 29, at 7:00 PM Pacific at the Crypto.com Arena. Fans can catch the action on FanDuel Sports Network, KCAL, Prime Video, and Pluto TV, or listen live on the ESPN LA App and LA Kings App. For real-time updates, follow @dooleylak and @lakings on Twitter.
Game Preview: Kings Aim to Regain Momentum
The Kings kick off a four-game homestand, their longest stretch at home so far this season. Despite a disappointing shootout loss to the Ducks, there were bright spots. Kevin Fiala continues to shine against the Canucks, tallying eight points (4 goals, 4 assists) in eight games since joining the Kings in 2022. Alex Turcotte, who scored his first goal of the season yesterday, also had a strong showing against Vancouver last season with three points in three games.
And this is the part most people miss... While the Kings have struggled in shootouts this season (1-5), their overall performance in close games has been commendable. They’ve come back from multi-goal deficits in the third period four times this season, earning five points in those games. Yesterday’s loss was their first time blowing a multi-goal lead in the third, a rarity that shouldn’t overshadow their resilience.
Goaltending Decision Looms Large
After Darcy Kuemper started in Anaheim, it’s unclear who will guard the net tonight. Kuemper boasts a strong record against Vancouver with 14 career wins and a .922 save percentage. If Anton Forsberg gets the nod, the Kings have earned points in five of his seven starts this season, though he’s yet to secure a win against the Canucks in five career appearances.
Lineup Adjustments and Player Spotlight
Yesterday’s lineup saw Alex Laferriere and Andrei Kuzmenko swap lines mid-game, with Laferriere playing alongside Anze Kopitar and Trevor Moore, while Kuzmenko joined Phillip Danault and Joel Armia. Expect similar personnel tonight, with potential tweaks based on warmups.
Defenseman Brian Dumoulin deserves recognition for his stellar play. After a slow start (-5 in his first three games), Dumoulin has been a steady presence, logging over 25 minutes and earning two assists against the Ducks. His poise and hockey sense have made him a reliable asset, pairing well with various defensive partners.
Canucks Aim to Rebound
Vancouver enters the game with just two wins in their last nine games and a 1-1-0 record on their current road trip. Forward Brock Boeser has been a thorn in the Kings’ side, scoring 17 goals in 23 games against them, including eight on the power play—a league-leading mark.
Key Storylines to Watch
Shootout Struggles: The Kings’ 1-5 record in shootouts this season is a concern. While it’s a skills competition, it’s a critical aspect of the game. Can they turn their luck around?
Dumoulin’s Impact: His consistent play has been a bright spot. How will he fare against his former team tonight?
Injury Updates: Warren Foegele (upper-body injury) is day-to-day but won’t play tonight. Drew Doughty skated this morning but remains out. How will their absences affect the lineup?
Final Thoughts
The Kings have an opportunity to reclaim their spot at the top of the division with a win tonight. While yesterday’s loss stung, it’s not indicative of a larger trend. Do you think the Kings can bounce back and secure the two points, or will the Canucks continue their road trip on a high note? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
