Analyzing LA Kings Potential Stanley Cup Playoffs Opponents

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Wild Card Teams

If the Kings secure the top spot in the Western Conference, they will face off against the second-best wildcard team, the Winnipeg Jets. Right now, they have 79 points, five points behind the Colorado Avalanche for the third seed in the Central Division.

Even though the season is far from over, the Jets have a comfortable three-point lead over the Calgary Flames, who were Pacific Division champions last year.

Interestingly, the Kings have had mixed results with both potential wild card opponents, going 1-1 against each club this season. Surprisingly, the games with the Flames and Jets have all been high-scoring affairs, 6-5, 4-3, 6-4, and 6-5, with extra time needed in two of the contests.

Apr. 2, 2022; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck (37) blocks a shot by Los Angeles Kings center Phillip Danault (24) in the first period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports /

Moreover, the Kings will face off against the Flames twice in eight days, with matchups on Monday, March 20th and 28th, and one showdown with the Jets on Mar. 25. Furthermore, these games will not significantly impact the Kings’ ability to secure a playoff spot; they could alter the seedings with six points up for grabs.

Although the NHL is competitive, and there are no easy nights, facing off against the Jets or the Flames, who have had their fair share of struggles this year, would be one of the least intimidating matchups the Kings could hope for in the upcoming Stanley Cup playoffs.

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