HOW TO WATCH
Game Time: 10:00 AM Pacific
TV: Fox Sports West, NHL Network
Radio: KABC AM 790
Stream: Fox Sports Go (requires cable subscription)
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
if you’re a Kings fan: Peter Budaj picked up his sixth shutout of the 2016-17 season against Colorado, and now he and the Kings head out on the road. Bad news? For Budaj, not necessarily; he’s carrying a .934 save percentage on the road, compared to a .908 save percentage at home. Can the unlikely starter sustain his road excellence?
if you’re a Flyers fan: Is coach Dave Hakstol really going to continue to bench Shayne Gostisbehere and Travis Konecny, two of the most dynamic players on the squad? Seems likely, after Philly locked down the Canadiens for the final 55 minutes of a 3-1 victory. For a team that’s given up the most goals in the Eastern Conference, any semblance of defense is welcome.
if you’re a hockey fan: The Flyers and Kings have had their fates interlocked for basically this entire decade, and it isn’t too surprising that they’ve essentially played to a draw since 2010. In ten games in this decade, each team has won five times, and with each team in their 50th season, the teams are both fighting for playoff position. Should be fun.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
for the Kings: Jeff Carter. The NHL’s second-leading goal-scorer might get a chilly reception upon returning to Philadelphia, but given what he’s done against Columbus in his career, the former Flyer might feast on an opportunity to face his old club. He’s especially going to be happy if he gets Tyler Toffoli back; #73 is a game-time decision.
for the Flyers: Wayne Simmonds. The All-Star Game MVP got the warmest of receptions in Los Angeles last weekend, but given his consistent goalscoring record and his importance to Philadelphia, he’s not about to let up now that LA is the enemy.
LEAGUE/WORLDWIDE WATCH
- Here, read some more about Gostisbehere and Konecny. [Broad Street Hockey]
- The Minnesota Wild find themselves in an unfamiliar position: at the top. Will they respond by going all-in? [Hockey Wilderness]
- The Nashville Predators waived Mike Ribeiro. May this please be the last we hear about him. [On the Forecheck]/
WATCH THIS
Bob Miller, who recently got out of the hospital, is reportedly going to discuss his future with the Los Angeles Kings at some point in the near future. Here’s a video of Bob after a 5-0 loss to the Avalanche in 2006, which seems appropriate in the aftermath of a 5-0 win against the Avalanche on Wednesday. Keep that fire, Bob!