The Los Angeles Kings are navigating the crucial final stretch of their 2024-25 season, marked by a stark contrast between their dominant home performances and their concerning road record. This disparity raises questions about their readiness for the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs.
At crypto.com Arena, the Kings have amassed an impressive 23-3-4 record, tying with the Tampa Bay Lightning for the most home wins in the league. This home dominance has positioned them just one point behind the Edmonton Oilers for second place in the Pacific Division. Had their road performance matched their home success, they could have been challenging for the division lead.
Los Angeles Kings Road Record Could Doom Their Playoff Hopes
However, their road record tells a different story. They currently stand at 13-18-5, accumulating 31 points away from home. They’ve been outscored 110-89, despite having a superior power-play percentage (13% to 5.5%) and outshooting their opponents 1,103-946. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper’s road struggles are particularly notable, with an 8-8-5 record, a 2.54 goals-against average, and 55 goals allowed. A turnaround from Kuemper could significantly boost the Kings’ playoff prospects.
With only three road games remaining against the Chicago Blackhawks, Colorado Avalanche, and the Utah Hockey Club, the Kings face a critical test. Winning these games could provide valuable road confidence heading into the playoffs while failing to do so could lead to another early playoff exit.
The Los Angeles Kings’ fate rests in their own hands. Dominating their remaining games could potentially secure them first place in the division, while inconsistent play could jeopardize their playoff aspirations altogether. With playoff seeding on the line, the Kings must capitalize on this opportunity to build momentum and prepare for the postseason.