Recap
2 min read

Can the Los Angeles Kings' Defense Overcome Tampa Bay Lightning's Powerplay at Benchmark International Arena?

First Period


The Los Angeles Kings faced off against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Benchmark International Arena, with both teams eager to improve their standings. The game began with a strong showing from the Bolts, who capitalized on a powerplay opportunity to take an early lead. Anthony Cirelli was instrumental in this period, scoring the only goal for Tampa Bay and setting an aggressive tone for his team.


Dec 18, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Kings goaltender Anton Forsberg (31) makes a save against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the third period at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Second Period


The second period saw a shift in momentum as the Kings found their rhythm. Adrian Kempe emerged as a key player for L.A., scoring two goals that turned the tide in favor of his team. His performance was supported by Anze Kopitar, who provided an assist that helped secure one of Kempe's goals. The Kings' defense also stepped up significantly, with Anton Forsberg making crucial saves to keep Tampa Bay from extending their lead.


Third Period


In the final period, both teams struggled to break through each other's defenses. Despite multiple attempts by both sides, neither could find the back of the net again. The Kings maintained their defensive stance effectively throughout this period, ensuring that Forsberg's earlier efforts were not wasted.


Dec 18, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Kings left wing Andrei Kuzmenko (96) shoots as Tampa Bay Lightning goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy (88) defends during the second period at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Post-Game Analysis


The Los Angeles Kings vs Tampa Bay Lightning match summary highlights how L.A.'s strategic adjustments and defensive resilience led them to victory with a 2-1 scoreline over Tampa Bay (18-13-3). This post-game report Los Angeles Kings emphasizes Adrian Kempe's standout performance and Anton Forsberg’s solid goaltending as pivotal factors in securing this win.


Looking ahead, fans can catch more action when L.A. hosts Columbus Blue Jackets on December 22nd at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles at 10:00 PM EDT. The game will be available on ESPN+ and local TV networks FDSW and FDSOH.


Dec 18, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Kings goaltender Anton Forsberg (31) makes a save against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the third period at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

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