The Los Angeles Kings are currently second in the Pacific Division in points percentage and with just under 20 games to go, have first place within reach. Entering Saturday, the Kings were only five points back with a game in hand.
Both the Kings and Golden Knights are scheduled to be in action with Los Angeles playing at home against the Nashville Predators. Meanwhile, the Golden Knights were on the road with an afternoon game against the Buffalo Sabres.
It seemed like Vegas was well on their way to two points as they had a 3-2 lead late in the third period. However, Sabres' defenseman Rasmus Dahlin was able to tie it up with 13 seconds left in regulation. After a scoreless overtime, the two teams went to a shootout to decide the winner.
THAT'S OUR CAPTAIN!!!!! pic.twitter.com/DDfcbgE7zc
— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) March 15, 2025
The Sabres would end up coming away with the win after scoring on two of three chances, while the Golden Knights only scored once. When considering the Golden Knights are one of the best teams in the NHL while the Sabres have struggled this season and with a late lead, it seemed almost certain they would leave Western New York with two points.
However, the Los Angeles Kings should be happy to see they would only end up with one point and it keeps the division title within reach.
Los Angeles Kings have to still take care of business against the Nashville Predators
While it is great that the Golden Knights didn't get two points, the Los Angeles Kings need to continue their strong play if they hope to catch them. They have won five straight but tonight against the Predators is a game they should win, similar to where Vegas was today, and make sure they leave with two points.
The Kings had a big win the last time they were on the ice with a 3-0 win over the Washington Capitals and have another marquee matchup on Monday against the Minnesota Wild. They must avoid what could be a trap game if they look past the Predators or don't have the same urgency they showed against the Capitals.
The opportunities to get closer to the Vegas Golden Knights are shrinking every game, and the Kings need to capitalize on the little gifts they receive across the league from teams playing the Golden Knights.