Opinion
4 min read

Los Angeles Kings Set to Invade Edmonton Oilers' Ice Fortress at Rogers Place

As the Los Angeles Kings prepare to face off against the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place, fans are bracing for what promises to be an intense matchup. The Kings, coming off a recent game where they were unable to score against the Oilers, are looking for redemption and a chance to prove their mettle.


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

In their last encounter on April 29th, the LA team was shut out despite firing 33 shots on goal. This statistic alone is indicative of a team that has no problem generating offense but needs to find ways to convert those opportunities into goals. The Kings dominated in hits with 41 compared to the Oilers' 27, showing that they have the physical edge necessary to unsettle their opponents.


However, one area where LA fell short was in faceoffs, winning only 46 percent compared to Edmonton's 54 percent. Dominance in faceoff circles often translates into control of the game's flow and possession – something that LA will need to improve upon if they want better outcomes.


Apr 22, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner (74) stretches to makes a save on Los Angeles Kings forward Viktor Arvidsson (33) during the second 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 powerplay also proved fruitless for LA during their last meeting; failing to capitalize even once despite having one opportunity could be seen as a missed chance especially when games are often decided by such fine margins. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that both teams had an equal number of penalties with just one minor each – discipline will again be key in avoiding giving away unnecessary advantages.


Looking back further at another recent game on April 27th paints a different picture; although LA lost with six goals conceded against one scored by them, it’s important not just look at numbers but also context. That day saw an unusually high number of penalties – fourteen minors and two misconducts for LA which led them spending too much time shorthanded where three out of six goals were conceded.


Apr 22, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Adam Henrique (19) 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

One shining moment from recent performances came on April 25th when LA emerged victorious over EDM after overtime with five goals scored from just twenty-six shots reflecting an impressive shooting percentage of nineteen percent which is well above average efficiency levels usually seen in NHL games.


The upcoming game presents an opportunity for Los Angeles Kings players like Adrian Kempe who has been shining lately - his speed and skill could be crucial factors if he can break through Edmonton's defense. Goaltending will also play a pivotal role; while both teams have shown strong goaltending performances recently with save percentages hitting perfect marks during these matches - any slip-up between pipes could tip scales either way this time around.


With all eyes set towards May 5th showdown scheduled at Rogers Place starting at noon local time (2:00 PM EDT), fans can catch action live as these two teams battle it out once more this season aiming not only for victory but also momentum heading deeper into playoffs race where every point counts more than ever before.

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