Forsberg Steps Up as Kings Face a Tough Test Against the Panthers
So here’s the situation heading into this Kings versus Panthers matchup, and honestly, it feels like one of those games where a lot more is at stake than just two points in the standings. The Los Angeles Kings are in Florida, right in the middle of a demanding road trip, and they’re taking on a Panthers team that knows exactly how to make life miserable for visiting teams.
This is the second meeting of the season between these two clubs, and it’s still fresh in everyone’s mind how the first one played out. Back in Los Angeles, the Kings actually jumped out early, but the Panthers quickly flipped the script, rattling off four straight goals and skating away with a 5–2 win. That memory alone adds a little extra edge to tonight’s game.
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For the Kings, the biggest storyline is in net. With Darcy Kuemper placed on injured reserve after getting hurt in Dallas, Anton Forsberg has been pushed right into the spotlight. This is exactly why he was brought in during the offseason. Forsberg isn’t new to pressure situations, and it’s been said more than once that he tends to find his rhythm when he’s playing regularly. He’s had some strong performances lately, and despite a rough outing against Florida earlier this season, there’s a clear sense that he’s found his groove over the last few weeks. Teammates have been vocal about their confidence in him, and now he’s being asked to stabilize a team that’s dropped three straight games.
There is some good news for the Kings up front. Quinton Byfield is expected back after missing the Dallas game due to illness, which should help solidify the top six. Phillip Danault remains out, but the forward lines have been shuffled to try and spark some offense. Andrei Kuzmenko is a player to watch here. After being scratched recently, he responded by scoring the Kings’ only goal against the Stars, and the hope is that he can build some consistency, even in a slightly reduced role.
On the other side, Florida comes in playing some of its best hockey of the season. They’ve won five of their last six and are starting to look more like the defending champions everyone expects. Even without key names like Aleksander Barkov and Matthew Tkachuk, the Panthers have plenty of firepower. Brad Marchand, at 37, has been leading the charge and remains a nightmare matchup for the Kings, based on his history against them.
And then there’s Anze Kopitar. This could be his final regular-season game in Florida, and the respect around the league for the Kings captain continues to be obvious. His numbers against the Panthers speak for themselves, and even opposing players have been quick to acknowledge his impact.
All signs point to a physical, emotional game. The Kings are desperate to right the ship, the Panthers are rolling at home, and Forsberg is being asked to rise to the moment. This one won’t be easy, but it’s the kind of challenge that can define a road trip.
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