It was certainly a disappointing trip to Edmonton for the Los Angeles Kings, as they dropped both Game 3 and a heartbreaking loss in overtime Sunday night in Game 4. The Kings have struggled to keep control of the games with multiple blown third period leads, and now the series is even up with the Edmonton Oilers at 2 games apiece.
One key to getting the Kings back on track may be contributions from players who have been left off the score sheet as of recent play. Alex Laferriere has shown signs of brilliant play, especially towards the end of the regular season, but needs to contribute more consistently for the Kings to have postseason success. Warren Foegele scored a goal in Game 4, which is a great sign for the Kings. However, Foegele’s playoff performance has been a little underwhelming, but he now has a goal and two assists.
Still, the Kings need him to match up with the Oilers' firepower moving forward in the series. The defensive scores have also been a little quiet lately with a combined 2 goals and 6 assists through the first four games. Though not normally known as offensive threats, players like Drew Doughty, Vladislav Gavrikov, and Mikey Anderson may need to step up the shots in Game 5. Maybe one other player to keep in mind is Trevor Lewis. With 12 points in the season and not quite the player from the past, Lewis is no stranger to the playoffs and still has the experience that can lift everyone around him.
Los Angeles Kings need more urgency at home
Now there is a sense of urgency that wasn’t evident on Sunday night, especially in overtime when the Oilers had multiple chances in the Kings' zone. The “A.K” line of Adrian Kempe, Andrei Kuzmenko, and Anze Kopitar has been effective for the Kings in both offensive and defensive situations. They have been matched up well against the Oilers top line and a key factor in the Kings success, which will need to continue as the series is now a best 2 out of 3.
Head Coach Jim Hiller, who has been criticized lately for in-game decisions, may need to make off-ice changes to get other players involved in the scoring. Mixing up lines and getting different player combinations could work well for the home team Tuesday night.
With the series tied and Game 5 scheduled in Los Angeles, the Kings can retain their home-ice advantage and take control of the series with a win. Game 6 will be in Edmonton, and Game 7, if necessary, will be back in Los Angeles.