The Los Angeles Kings’ four-game winning streak came to an end with a 4-0 shutout loss to the Colorado Avalanche on Thursday night. Martin Necas led the way for Colorado, scoring two goals and providing an assist, while Jonathan Drouin and Logan O’Connor also found the net. Avalanche goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood made 23 saves for his third shutout of the season, helping Colorado extend their impressive run to 12-1-1 in their last 14 games.
The Avalanche quickly took control of the game in the second period with two goals within 92 seconds. O’Connor opened the scoring with a tip-in, followed shortly by Necas, who scored off a rebound. Necas added another goal on a power play later in the second period, and Drouin scored another power-play goal in the third period to seal the victory for Colorado.
Despite the loss, the Kings remain in second place in the Pacific Division, two points ahead of the Edmonton Oilers. Los Angeles had been riding a strong offensive surge, having scored 20 goals over their previous four games. However, they struggled to generate opportunities against the Avalanche, with Coach Jim Hiller noting that the team lacked sharpness throughout the game.
The Kings had their chances early, with Jeff Malott and Valerie Nichushkin both being denied in the first period. However, as the game progressed, Colorado’s quick offensive strikes left the Kings with little time to recover. Kings goalie David Rittich made 20 saves, but the defense couldn’t prevent Colorado’s potent attack.
Looking ahead, the Kings will return home to face the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday. Despite the tough loss, Los Angeles is still in a strong position in the playoff race and will aim to bounce back with a victory in their next game.
