The stage is set for yet another thrilling chapter in the Pacific Division rivalry as the Los Angeles Kings (19-10-4) host the Edmonton Oilers (21-11-2) on Saturday, December 28, at Crypto.com Arena, with puck drop scheduled for 1:00 PM PST. This matchup is not just another game; it marks the Kings' return from the holiday break and the first of four meetings between these two teams during the 2024-25 NHL regular season.
Both teams come off impressive runs leading up to this game, with the Kings eager to capitalize on their home advantage. LA has established itself as formidable at Crypto.com Arena, boasting impressive statistics under head coach Jim Hiller with a record of 24-7-2 since his tenure began last February. This year, the Kings hold a 10-2-1 record at home, making it tough for any visiting team to steal points away.
Historically, the Kings have struggled against the Oilers, losing three out of four regular-season games last year and facing elimination from the postseason at the hands of Edmonton. Quinton Byfield emerged as LA's top scorer last year against the Oilers, notching two goals and eight assists across all nine matchups. Adrian Kempe's resume against the Oilers is equally impressive, boasting 11 goals and 19 points over their last 18 games. With such track records, the matchup today promises to have significant importance.
"It’s another game, but it’s always hard against them. We know the skill they have, they play hard and so do we," noted Kings forward Phillip Danault, acknowledging the ever-present challenge of playing against Edmonton’s elite talent.
For the Kings, this clash also holds substantial weight due to their overall standing within the division. A regulation win would see them leapfrog the Oilers in the standings, making every moment on the ice matter even more. Head coach Jim Hiller suggested the importance of maintaining perspective, saying, "It’s hard every time we play them; it’s a team we want to beat, but I'm not going to make it bigger than it is."
Special teams play has been a decisive factor between these two franchises over the past few seasons, with the Oilers significantly outperforming the Kings on the power play last year. Edmonton capitalized on 35% of their chances, whereas the Kings managed only 8%. This season, Edmonton’s special teams have not been as consistent, converting just 21.6% of power-play opportunities, compared to the Kings' much-improved 24% at home. The battle on special teams could very well influence the outcome of today’s game.
The matchup of center pairs brings another layer of intrigue. Danault and Anze Kopitar will likely face off against Edmonton's dynamic duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, two of the league’s most elite scorers. The last change due to being at home offers Hiller the tactical advantage to deploy his best players against the Oilers' top lines. The strategy here could expand the offensive capabilities of other Kings players, like Byfield and Warren Foegele, who can thrive against lesser competition.
Adding to the storyline is the return of forward Viktor Arvidsson, who spent three seasons with the Kings before signing with the Oilers this summer. His presence adds emotional weight to the matchup as Kings fans recall his contributions. "A lot of friends, a lot of good memories there, and I’m looking forward to playing against them," commented Foegele, who was involved in the trade with Arvidsson and swapped places this offseason.
On the Oilers' side, their offensive prowess continues to be led by McDavid and Draisaitl, with the latter enjoying a torrid form lately, on a nine-game point streak, averaging 2.22 points per game. If he can replicate his previous performances against LA, the Kings' defense will certainly have its work cut out. Draisaitl has scored 33 points against the Kings throughout his career, making him one of the team's main threats on the ice today.
Today's game holds the opportunity for both teams to gauge their pace as they move toward the New Year, with the Kings eager to rack up more points against their rivals. Their last encounter will be remembered not just for its excitement but for the standings at stake with the Kings focused not only on beating the Oilers but also on their own growth and resilience.
Finally, this game promises to be not just another match; it is the embodiment of rivalry, strategy, and pure exhilaration. Fans can tune in for this must-watch showdown on FanDuel Sports Network or catch the action live through the ESPN LA app. Go Kings Go!
