Opinion
3 min read

Can the Kings Dominate at KeyBank Center Against the Sabres?

As the Los Angeles Kings prepare to face off against the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center, fans are eager to see if their team can carry forward the momentum from their recent performances. The Kings have shown a remarkable ability to control games, as evidenced by their dominant victory over the Calgary Flames on December 24th, where they secured a 5-3 win. That game highlighted LA's offensive prowess with a shooting percentage of 15 percent and an even-strength goal tally that outshone their opponents.


Feb 13, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Buffalo Sabres center Peyton Krebs (19) moves the puck against the Los Angeles Kings during the first period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The Kings' strategy has been clear: capitalize on even-strength opportunities and maintain a strong defensive line. Their goaltending has been solid, with an impressive save percentage that kept them in games even when other aspects weren't clicking perfectly. This was particularly evident in their tight encounter with the Seattle Kraken on December 21st, where despite firing off an astounding 43 shots and winning most faceoffs, they narrowly lost with a final score of 2-1.


However, it's not just about defense for LA; their offense has also been firing on all cylinders. In San Jose against the Sharks on December 20th, they managed to net four goals from just eight hits – showcasing efficiency and precision in front of goal.


Feb 13, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Buffalo Sabres center Tage Thompson (72) controls the puck against the Los Angeles Kings during the first period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The upcoming game against Buffalo presents another opportunity for LA to showcase this balance between attack and defense. The Sabres will be no pushovers at home but based on recent form; it seems likely that LA will dictate play through physical presence and sharpshooting.


Buffalo will need to be wary of LA's powerplay capabilities as well – although not always converting these chances into goals recently, they've shown they can create opportunities which could prove crucial in tight matchups like these.


Feb 13, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Buffalo Sabres center Tyson Jost (17) takes the face off against Los Angeles Kings center Rasmus Kupari (89) during the third period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

In conclusion, if Los Angeles maintains its disciplined play style while continuing to exploit its offensive talents effectively during even-strength play as seen in past games – there is every reason for fans to expect another win added to their tally come February 14th.


Fans looking forward to catching this Valentine's Day clash should note that puck drop is scheduled for February 14th at KeyBank Center in Buffalo. You can follow all the action live via ESPN+ nationally or tune into MSG-B channel 635-1 if you're rooting from home territory or BSW channel 692 for away support.

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