Opinion
3 min read

Can Los Angeles Kings Overcome Oilers in the Heart of Edmonton?

As the Los Angeles Kings prepare to face off against the Edmonton Oilers, fans are eager to see if their team can replicate the success from their last encounter on April 25th. In that game, the Kings demonstrated a remarkable ability to bounce back, overcoming a deficit to win 5-4 in overtime. The victory was a testament to their resilience and offensive prowess, with an impressive shooting percentage of 19 percent and five even-strength goals.


Apr 22, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Los Angeles Kings defensemen Mikey Anderson (44) trips up Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (97) during the third period in game one of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

The statistics from that night tell a story of aggression and determination; the Kings hit hard with 53 hits and blocked an imposing number of shots (20), showcasing their physical presence on ice. Their goaltender also played a crucial role, saving all but four of the 31 shots against him – an impressive feat that contributed significantly to their win.


However, it wasn't just about defense. The Kings' offense was firing on all cylinders as well; they managed to net five goals out of just 26 shots. This level of efficiency will be critical as they head into enemy territory once again.


Apr 22, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Zach Hyman (18) celebrates after scoring a goal during the first period against the Los Angeles Kings in game one of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

Looking at another recent performance against Edmonton on April 23rd paints a less favorable picture for LA. Despite delivering more hits (67) than in any other recent game analyzed here, they fell short with only four goals scored while allowing seven by the Oilers – indicating potential vulnerabilities in both defense and offense that need addressing.


The powerplay opportunities have been somewhat underutilized by LA recently; during these two games against Edmonton, they failed to convert any chances despite having three opportunities on April 25th and two on April 23rd. Improving this aspect could be key for tipping future games in their favor.


Apr 22, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl (29) celebrates after scoring a goal during the third period against the Los Angeles Kings in game one of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

It's worth noting that when playing at home against Chicago Blackhawks on April 19th, LA showed what they're capable of when everything clicks into place: A strong powerplay performance with two goals from four opportunities helped secure them a win after overtime.


As we look ahead towards May 1st's game scheduled at Rogers Place at noon local time (5:00 PM UTC), it is clear that Los Angeles Kings must capitalize on every chance if they wish to emerge victorious once more in this high-stakes matchup. Fans can catch all the action live as these two teams battle it out for supremacy once again – will LA continue its dominance or will Edmonton leverage its home advantage? Only time will tell.

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