The LA Kings are in Columbus to take on the Blue Jackets. This match was originally scheduled for January 26 but was postponed due to severe weather in Ohio.
Doughty’s Domination Against Columbus
Defenseman Drew Doughty has a five-game point streak against Columbus dating back to the 2021-22 season. This includes an assist in their December meeting in Los Angeles. Throughout his career, Doughty has tallied 24 assists and 33 points against Columbus, marking his highest totals against any Eastern Conference opponent in both categories.
Kings’ Lineup and Goaltending Situation
The Kings did not hold a morning skate. It is unclear who will start in goal, but Darcy Kuemper and Anton Forsberg are expected to split the back-to-back. If Kuemper starts, his lifetime record against the Blue Jackets is 4-4-2, with a .935 save percentage and a 2.10 goals-against average. Should Forsberg get the nod against his former club, he has a 4-4-0 record with a .925 save percentage and a 2.51 goals-against average against Columbus.
The Kings lined up against Montreal as follows:
- Panarin – Kopitar – Kempe
- Moore – Byfield – Laferriere
- Turcotte – Laughton – Wright
- Malott – Helenius – Ward
On defence, the pairings were:
- Anderson – Doughty
- Edmundson – Clarke
- Dumoulin – Ceci
The Kings have 13 forwards, 7 defensemen and two goaltenders available. Mathieu Joseph and Jacob Moverare are available to enter the lineup.
Blue Jackets’ Hot Streak and Key Players
Columbus has been one of the hottest teams in the NHL. They lead the league with a .789 points percentage over the last two months, holding a 14-3-2 record.
The Blue Jackets’ lineup last time out was:
Columbus forward Mason Marchment scored twice when the teams played in December. Since joining Columbus, Marchment has 11 goals and 19 points in 20 games, ranking second on the team in goals during that span. Forward Conor Garland made his Columbus debut against Utah on Saturday, after a trade from Vancouver.
Kings’ Offensive Performance Against Montreal
The Kings had a strong offensive showing against Montreal. They set a season high with 26 high-danger chances. The Kings also had 46 scoring chances, tying their season high. Outside of the game against the Islanders, the game against Montreal was also a season-high for expected goals for.
The Kings face the Blue Jackets as they begin their five-game roadtrip.