Russell Morgan 
The LA Kings dropped the second leg of a back-to-back against the Coyotes 2-1 in a shootout at Mullett Arena.
Goal Breakdown
1st period:
ARI: Nick Schmaltz (6) PPG, ASST: Clayton Keller (19), Shayne Gostisbehere (16)
2nd period:
LAK: Alex Iafallo (14) PPG, ASST: Sean Durzi (16), Phillip Danault (15)
3rd period:
No Goals
Shootout
Momentum heading into the break
Many may look at this game and be disappointed. A loss in any fashion to a team that is in the Connor Bedard sweepstakes can be upsetting. But looking from at the game combined with the recent stretch by the LA Kings, they’re on the right trajectory.
Defense has been a big problem for LA all throughout the early parts of the year. But in the last few games for the Kings we’ve seen LA focus more on the defensive end. To obtain a point and limit an opponent to only one goal (no matter who it is) in the second leg of a back to back with travel should be considered a job well done. The Kings now head into the holiday break riding a five game point streak (4-0-1).
Quick makes his return
It’s been almost two weeks since we’ve last seen Jonathan Quick in net for the LA Kings. And while rust may have been expected Quick was solid. As great as it’s been to see Pheonix Copley take over as the Kings number one goalie in recent games, the Kings will need Quick to be good when called upon.
For a goalie of his age, it’s probably best to have Quick be a number two tender at this point of his career. Having him step in for spot starts every now and then would allow the 36 year old more rest and keep him fresh throughout the season.
He’s been better than advertised in his first season with LA. Fiala exhibits elite-level speed, agility, and power on a nightly basis. And all those skills were put on display with this goal.
The Mullett Experience
Last night’s game was the LA Kings first look at the Arizona Coyotes’ temporary new home in Tempe. Mullett Arena which seats only 5,000, brings a unique experience for an NHL game. I thought it was great for the fans and the Kings faithful that made the trip brought the noise as well. There’s not a bad seat in the house. Any would love to watch their favorite hockey team in that environment.
UP NEXT: The Kings have three days off before returning home to play the division leading Vegas Golden Knights on Tuesday at 7:30 pm PT.
Featured image: (Jae C. Hong / Associated Press)