Russell Morgan It was a good first two periods for the LA Kings, but a 34 second stretch in the third period turns into a 5-2 loss against the Boston Bruins.
Goal Breakdown
1st period:
LAK: Phillip Danault (13), Assists: Alex Iafallo (9), Mikey Anderson (8)
2nd period:
BOS: David Pastrnak (26), Assists: Brad Marchand (22), Charlie McAvoy (18)
BOS: Brad Marchand PPG (11), Assist: Charlie McAvoy (19)
LAK: Sean Durzi (5), Assists: Matt Roy (9), Anze Kopitar (20)
3rd period:
BOS: Trent Frederic (8), Assists: Brandon Carlo (6)
BOS: Trent Frederic (9), Assists: Nick Foligno (11), Charlie Coyle (11)
BOS: David Pastrnak ENG (27), Unassisted
Tough stretch spoils a good performance
The LA Kings kept up with the Boston Bruins through two periods in last night’s game. In fact, I thought they were the better team throughout the first 40 minutes and at times in the early part of the third frame. But a “lucky” deflection and a bad read by Alex Edler in the neutral zone led to the tough loss.
The game was very reminiscent of Tuesday’s game against the Dallas Stars. Two really good teams playing some really good hockey with a 2-2 tie heading into the third period. This time the Kings would falter late in the game, but there were still plenty of positives to takeaway. The Bruins are the best team in the league for a reason, and if you make mistakes against they will capitalize.
Iafallo seizing opportunity
With Trevor Moore out due to injury, Alex Iafallo found himself back playing alongside Phillip Danault and Viktor Arvidsson on LA’s second line, and they haven’t missed a beat. The three spent time together during parts of last season and have continued to build upon the chemistry they established.
The shift that led to the Kings’ first goal was reminiscent of goals scored by The Nice Line during their time together—dominating in puck possession, quick transition, and winning puck battles in the offensive zone. With the strong play by the trio of Iafallo, Danault, and Arvidsson, head coach Todd McLellan may have to find a new home in the lineup for Moore when he returns.
Edler needs more rest
It’s asking a lot for Alex Edler to play almost every game. Throughout most of the season, he’s been a contributor to good defensive performances by the LA Kings. But there are times we’ve seen the decision-making and transition play be a crutch on the left side of the defense.
If the Kings want to keep Edler playing at a high level toward the later part of the season they’ll need to give him some more games off. With Tobias Bjornfot and Jacob Moverare in the organization, there’s plenty of talent to cover if rest is needed.
UP NEXT: The Kings head out to Vegas on Saturday to face the Pacific Division-leading Golden Knights at 7 pm PT.
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