LOS ANGELES — In a thrilling game at the Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday night, the Los Angeles Kings did what good teams can do: beat the New York Rangers 3-1.
However, the win is yet another note in a very good season for the Kings and a testament to their place in the upper echelon of the NHL with their long point streaks at home.
Kevin Fiala was not just a star, he was the star, scoring twice to lead his team to victory. Darcy Kuemper did his part, stopping 22 shots to keep the Rangers at bay.
Phillip Danault added a key goal for the Kings, who improved their home point streak to 15 games (12-0-3). Only the Washington Capitals have maintained this streak in the NHL 2023.
“It’s been awesome, it’s been fun to play in front of the fans,” Kevin Fiala said post game. “We feel home here. We feel great here. Obviously, we’re strong here, and the feeling kind of, you know, we kind of feel it, we’re going to win no matter if we’re up or down.”
The Rangers made only one visit to the net in the second period, when J. T. Miller scored his 18th goal of the season. His goal gave the Rangers a brief 1-0 lead, but a scrappy Kings team turned the game around within moments, cycling and pressing with a stubborn offensive barrage.
Kings Captain Anže Kopitar extended his impressive pace, recording his 39th assist of the season. Not only did this assist extend Carter’s point streak to three games, but the goals also represented milestones in NHL history. Kopitar’s 1,268th career point put him ahead of Jean Ratelle and into sole possession of the 41st-most points in league history. Also, his 831st career assist pushed him past Henrik Sedin for 28th all-time.
“I think it’s a bunch of guys just in unity,” Kings forward Trevor Moore told reporters.
With eight home games and four road games remaining in the regular season, the Kings are well-positioned to keep their strong push into the playoffs. The Kings are currently second in the Pacific Division with 89 points.
Los Angeles faces the Colorado Avalanche this Thursday. With their cohesive teamwork, skilled leadership, and the fans’ unwavering support, the Kings look set to put their foot on the playoff ladder and keep climbing.
