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Los Angeles Kings Battling Washington Capitals on Super Bowl Sunday

By Ian Smith

February 1, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Kings goalie Peter Budaj (31) defends the goal as center Anze Kopitar (11) recovers the puck as Colorado Avalanche center Mikhail Grigorenko (25) chases during the third period at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
February 1, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Kings goalie Peter Budaj (31) defends the goal as center Anze Kopitar (11) recovers the puck as Colorado Avalanche center Mikhail Grigorenko (25) chases during the third period at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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It’s Super Bowl Sunday, and while the Big Game will garner most of the headlines, there’s still some great hockey matches to be consumed. The Los Angeles Kings are playing the Washington Capitals in D.C. at 9:00 AM Pacific Time.

This is actually perfect, because a sports fan on the West Coast can enjoy an entire day of exciting showdowns.

For those hosting a Super Bowl party, maybe have guests over a little earlier than planned. The Kings and Capitals can serve as an appetizer to the Falcons and Patriots.

The Kings are in the midst of a 5 game winning streak, and Peter Budaj hasn’t given up a goal in 7 consecutive periods.

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Jonathan Quick’s replacement now leads the NHL in shutouts, and perhaps is prompting some discussions about who will be getting the bulk of the playing time when Quick finally returns.

It’s an excellent problem for a team to have. Quick is elite, and Budaj has had one of the most impressive seasons of any goaltender in the league during 2016-2017.

There’s nothing wrong with simply rolling with the hot hand, whoever it may be. If this organization has proven anything in recent years, it’s that they know how to maximize a roster full of talented individuals.

Tyler Toffoli returned to the lineup in their overtime victory against the Philadelphia Flyers, and it just seems like things are starting to come together for this squad.

The Kings are now 27-21-4, and are holding the top wildcard spot in the Western Conference with 58 points.

This will be a crucial test for the Kings, because the Capitals are currently the best team in hockey. Continuing this winning streak with a road victory in D.C. would send a powerful message that the Kings are a force to be reckoned with.

The Capitals rank in the top 5 in both goals per game and fewest goals allowed per game. In fact, no team gives up fewer goals per game than the Capitals.

Goaltender Braden Holtby has been brilliant this season. He’s 25-8-4 with a 1.99 GAA and .929 save percentage. Among qualified goalies, he ranks 3rd in GAA, 3rd in save percentage, and tied for 5th in wins.

Next: Los Angeles Kings Former Defenseman Rob Blake Was Majorly Snubbed

Nicklas Backstrom leads the team with 51 points. and Alex Ovechkin leads the squad with 25 goals. Washington has won 15 of their last 18 games.

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