No one expected the Los Angeles Kings to win their pre-season matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights on Wednesday. The reigning Stanley Cup champions were icing a mostly veteran NHL squad, while the Kings sent, well, the Ontario Reign.
Of the rostered players, only Brandt Clarke logged any NHL time for the Kings last season. A handful of newcomers made a few appearances in the NHL last season for their previous teams: Steven Santini, Charles Hudon, Mikhail Maltsev. Goaltender J-F Berube hasn’t seen the NHL since February 20, 2022, when he suited up for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Low expectations felt just about right for this one.
Akil Thomas, however, set his sights sky-high. Thomas, who is looking to make an impact after injuries have marred each season of his career so far, made himself known in a big way. His hat trick helped drag a technically overmatched Kings squad to overtime.
Tyler Madden, who faded towards the end of the Reign’s 2022-23 season, also made his presence known. With 30 seconds left in overtime, Madden got set free on a breakaway and capped off the night with a goal for the win.
While defenseman Brandt Clarke didn’t record a goal, he did notch two assists and three shots on goal. Clarke, who is returning from a minor upper-body injury that kept him out of the Australia games, logged 28:47 in ice time, the most of all players on the Kings. The 20-year old is looking to secure a spot on the Kings opening night roster, and he certainly seemed to rise to the occasion in his first pre-season action.
The Kings continue their pre-season on Friday when they take on the Anaheim Ducks. The game will take place at Pechanga Arena in San Diego, the home of the Ducks’ AHL affiliate.
Featured image via Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports