LOS ANGELES, Calif. — The Los Angeles Kings did more than earn two points last night. They rediscovered who they are. In a tense 2 to 1 victory over the Ottawa Senators at Crypto.com Arena, the Kings snapped a three game skid and reminded everyone that they can still win tough, disciplined, grind it out hockey when it matters most.
After two scoreless periods that felt like a slow, methodical chess match, the Kings finally broke through early in the third period. Warren Foegele finished a clean back door pass after a smooth breakout, giving Los Angeles a brief surge of energy. Ottawa responded with a scrappy rebound goal from Fabian Zetterlund, tying the game and placing even more pressure on a Kings team that has struggled to close out tight contests during their recent slump.
The deciding moment arrived on a late power play combined with a bit of luck. With the advantage winding down, Brandt Clarke fired a shot from the point that deflected off a defender and rolled into the net. It became the difference maker and held up as the game winner. The play was not flashy, but it was the exact type of moment the Kings needed. It showed resilience, patience and a commitment to sticking with the plan even when the game felt stuck in neutral.
The offense still lacked consistency. Pressure came in waves instead of extended stretches. However, the Kings made up for it with disciplined defensive structure. They limited dangerous chances, stayed composed in the final minutes and received steady goaltending. Their penalty kill came up strong and their special teams delivered at the critical moment.
This win did not feel like a statement of dominance, but it absolutely felt like a statement of character. It reminded the team and its fans that Los Angeles does not need constant scoring bursts to stay competitive. The Kings simply need to embrace the identity that once defined them, which is strong defending, committed effort, timely scoring and comfort in playing low event hockey that frustrates opponents.
If the Kings can use this victory as a foundation and find ways to generate offense more consistently, this may become the turning point they have been searching for. For now, the message is clear. In a tight, tense, low scoring matchup, the Kings proved they can still grind out a win. This result might be the spark their season has been waiting for.
The Kings are headed down to Anaheim on Friday night to go against the Ducks. Puck drop is at 1pm PST.
