Through the first two periods, the Kings appeared trapped in a stagnant state, struggling offensively as every promising attack ended with turnovers. However, the momentum shifted in the third period, a rare occurrence for the team this season. Brant Clark’s power-play goal secured a 2-1 win over the Senators, preventing overtime and allowing Los Angeles to break their three-game losing streak.
Ottawa dominated the early part of the game, winning nearly 70% of their matchups and outscoring the Kings, but strong goaltending and resilient defense kept Los Angeles in the game. The Senators extended their lead with a goal from Fabian Zetterlund, who made an impressive aerial move before firing into the net. The game seemed destined for overtime, which has often been a losing battleground for the Kings.
Instead, the Kings ignited a crucial comeback. Shortly after Ottawa’s tying goal, a penalty by the Senators gave the Kings a power-play opportunity. Clark, consistently a standout player this season, capitalized by shooting through traffic to give his team the lead for the first time that night. The Kings then focused on defense to protect their slim advantage, successfully holding off a final Ottawa surge.
While the overall performance was shaky and uneven, the victory is vital, especially in a fiercely competitive Pacific Division. This win represents a significant step for the Kings as they head into their upcoming game against the Anaheim Ducks.
Fan Take: This win is a crucial morale booster for the Kings, showing their ability to overcome adversity and close out tight games. For hockey fans, it highlights the unpredictable nature of the sport and why every moment counts in a tough playoff race, adding drama and excitement to the season.
