The Kings started pretty slow but thankfully, Jonathan Quick was very good early on and made several key saves. Los Angeles gave up a high number of chances in the first period and into the second as well, but Quick kept the deficit manageable. For the first period and a bit, he was a difference-maker and was able to keep the Kings in the game while they found their footing.
At a certain point though, Los Angeles did get going though and started to get opportunities of their own, while doing a much better job limiting Colorado’s chances. The Kings were also able to capitalize on their power play chances, going 2-for-5 in the game. Both Drew Doughty and Gabriel Vilardi scored with great shots, from a similar location.
The Kings have still struggled to put a full 60-minute game together, whether it be starting slow or letting off the gas. In addition, there were way too many defensive zone lapses early on, both from coverage issues and turnovers, where Quick had to bail the team out. That said, they got the win against a good team and it goes to show how competitive this team can be.
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Here’s today’s poll question (results and discussion will be posted in a future article):
Four points in four games - are you happy with the Kings' start to the season?