The Los Angeles Kings did get a point on Tuesday night against the Pittsburgh Penguins but it was a game where it felt like they should definitely got two. They had a 2-1 lead going into the third period before the Penguins tied it up in the final period before winning in overtime.
This game was somewhat uncharacteristic of the Kings as they have been pretty good in one-score games. They have a 5-1 record this season in those situations due in large part to out-shooting teams in the final period 286-242 but the Penguins had the slight edge in this category on Tuesday.
Key to the Game for the Los Angeles Kings: Win the second period
The past few games the focus has been getting an early lead, and they have been able to do that, but in this game it doesn't feel as critical to get up early. On the season, the Kings have been pretty good in fighting back when opponents score first and have a 6-6 record this year.
However, the second period is not only where the Kings seem to pull away from teams but also where the Flyers seem to lose the momentum battle. This season, the Kings have outscored opponents 32-25 while the Flyers have been outscored 46-27.
Final Score Prediction: Los Angeles Kings 4, Philadelphia Flyers 2
The Los Angeles Kings have not lost back to back games since November 11th and 13th against the Calgary Flames and Colorado Avalanche. I believe they are able to keep that streak going and bounce back with a win against the Flyers.
It may be a slow start in this game but that second period is going to be the difference in this game and whichever team wins that will win this game. One player to watch is Brandt Clarke, as the Flyers have allowed the fifth most goals to defensemen according to StatMuse, and Clarke hasn't had a goal since November 25th against the Sharks.