The LA Kings, with 89 points, are the second seed in the Pacific Division, trailing the Vegas Golden Knights by just a single point. Even though the top spot in the division and the Western Conference are both up for grabs, the Kings are a lock to make the postseason for the second consecutive season.
Last year, the Edmonton Oilers upset the Kings in the first round in seven games, advancing to the conference final in Connor McDavid’s first significant playoff run. Conversely, these two teams would face off for the second year if the season ended today. Although the Kings are a much deeper team this time, McDavid has produced points (131 and counting) like he was playing in the 1990s, presenting LA with a significant challenge in a rematch.
Although there are still 13 games left in the Kings’ season, let’s break down a few teams they could face in the opening round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs.