Kings vs. Panthers: A Battle for Redemption and Dominance on the Ice

Tonight, the ice heats up as the Los Angeles Kings face off against the formidable Florida Panthers in what promises to be an electrifying NHL matchup. This marks the second road contest of the Kings’ demanding three-game trip and their second encounter this season with the reigning two-time Stanley Cup Champions. After a disappointing 5-2 loss in their previous meeting, the Kings are hungry for redemption, while the Panthers aim to assert their dominance on home ice.

Head-to-Head: A Look Back at the Rivalry

This Wednesday’s game will conclude the 2025-26 regular-season series between these two competitive clubs. Their last clash in Los Angeles saw Florida emerge victorious with a 5-2 scoreline. Anze Kopitar and Corey Perry briefly put the Kings ahead in the first period, but the Panthers quickly rallied, scoring four unanswered goals to secure the win. Last season, the teams split their two contests, with LA taking a 2-1 victory at home before falling 3-0 in the Sunshine State. Tonight’s game is more than just another point in the standings; it’s a test of wills and a chance for the Kings to prove their mettle against a top-tier opponent.

Kings’ Corner: Navigating Injuries and Finding Form

The Kings arrive in Florida having spent Monday night in Dallas, followed by a much-needed day off the ice. This break culminated in a full team morning skate, a welcome sight for coach Jim Hiller. Forward Quinton Byfield, who missed the Dallas game due to the flu, is expected to make his return tonight, a significant boost to the Kings’ offensive depth. However, Phillip Danault, battling illness, remains sidelined for his third consecutive game.

Forsberg Steps Up: A Goalie Under Pressure

Perhaps the most critical storyline for the Kings is the absence of their No. 1 netminder, Darcy Kuemper, who was placed on injured reserve after sustaining an injury in Monday’s loss. This means Anton Forsberg, who stepped in relief two days ago, will be thrust into the spotlight, making his 10th start of the season. Forsberg also faced the Panthers last month, making 19 saves in a losing effort. Despite that, his career .929 save percentage and 2.86 goals-against in seven appearances against Florida highlight his potential. Defender Joel Edmundson praised Forsberg, stating, “He’s definitely found his game this past month or two, and he’s been playing awesome. It doesn’t matter who’s in net for us, we’re definitely comfortable, and he’s been playing great hockey.” Coach Hiller echoed this sentiment, noting, “He’s really seemed to find his groove. Whether he’s playing on five or six days rest, or it’s been longer this time around, he’s really found a groove for us and we’re really happy with what he’s given us here.” This is Forsberg’s chance to shine and stabilize a team looking to snap a three-game losing streak.

Projected Kings’ Lineup: Strategic Adjustments

With Byfield’s return, the Kings’ lines saw some adjustments during morning skate:

• Laferriere – Kopitar – Kempe
• Fiala – Byfield – Foegele
• Kuzmenko – Turcotte – Moore
• Armia – Helenius – Perry

Alex Laferriere is expected to return to the wing, while Andrei Kuzmenko, fresh off netting the Kings’ lone goal against the Stars, will skate alongside Alex Turcotte and Trevor Moore. Kevin Fiala will reunite with Quinton Byfield, and Warren Foegele could see increased minutes. The defensive pairings, however, are expected to remain unchanged, with Jacob Moverare serving as the extra blueliner.

Panthers’ Prowess: Defending Champions on a Roll

The Florida Panthers are currently playing some of their best hockey of the season, winning five of their last six outings. Recent victories over Columbus, the New York Islanders, Utah, Dallas, and Tampa Bay underscore their formidable form. While they started slower than expected, their 10 home wins are tied for third-most in the Eastern Conference, proving their home ice advantage is a force to be reckoned with. With a record of 17-13-2 and 36 points through 32 games, they are just two points out of a wild card spot.

Key Panthers Players and Goalie Outlook

Despite missing key veteran forwards Aleksander Barkov (out for the season with a knee injury) and Matthew Tkachuk (yet to suit up this season), the Panthers boast a potent offense. Brad Marchand, at 37, leads the team with 35 points (19 goals, 16 assists) in 31 games and has a history of strong performances against the Kings. Sam Reinhart (17 goals, 32 points) and the duo of Carter Verhaeghe and Anton Lundell (each with 10 goals, 16 assists, 26 points) further bolster their attack. On the backend, Seth Jones leads defensemen with 19 points.

In net, the Panthers will turn to Daniil Tarasov for his second career start against the Kings. His only prior encounter with LA in March 2023 saw him pulled after allowing four goals. This season, the 26-year-old holds a 3-5-1 record in 10 games for Florida. Here’s a glimpse at their morning skate lines, as noted by Jameson Olive:

• Luostarinen – Lundell – Reinhart
• Verhaeghe – Bennett – Marchand
• Greer – Rodrigues – Samoskevich
• Kunin – Gregor – Boqvist

Three Key Storylines to Watch in Kings vs. Panthers

1. The Home Ice Advantage: Florida’s Fortress

Winning in Florida has become increasingly challenging. The Panthers’ surge in recent years has transformed their home arena into a formidable fortress. While the Kings fell 3-0 in their last visit, they hold a respectable 2-1-1 record in their last four games in Sunrise. Anze Kopitar has been a standout in these matchups with three points (2G, 1A). Corey Perry, a seasoned veteran, offered insights into the Panthers’ relentless style: “They’re in your face. They’re coming forward, they’re physical, they do the same thing over and over again and it’s repetitive, but it works.” Brandt Clarke, a younger defender, noted their dangerous offensive zone presence: “They have guys up front who are big, strong, but also super skilled so if you give them an inch they’re going to take a mile.” The Kings will need to match their physicality and maintain strong breakouts to succeed.

2. Kuzmenko’s Evolving Role and Offensive Spark

Andrei Kuzmenko is expected to shift out of a top-six role tonight after skating with Anze Kopitar and Adrian Kempe in Dallas. After being a healthy scratch for multiple games, Hiller sought to give him more minutes, which paid off with a power-play goal against the Stars. Hiller praised Kuzmenko’s performance: “He had three or four chances… he uses his skill to beat people. So yeah, coming back in it was a good performance from him.” Kuzmenko leads the team with four power-play goals this season and has nine total points. Skating with Alex Turcotte and Trevor Moore, this line promises speed and skill, and Kuzmenko will look to continue his offensive contributions, especially given his three points in his last two appearances in Sunrise.

3. Kopitar’s Final Regular Season Farewell in Florida

Tonight marks Anze Kopitar’s 30th regular-season matchup against the Florida Panthers and his final regular-season appearance in their building. The Kings’ all-time leader in goals (9), assists (18), and points (27) against the Panthers, Kopitar’s consistent excellence has earned universal respect. Sam Bennett of the Panthers aptly described him: “He’s an unbelievable player. He’s got an incredible resume. One of those guys that’s just really well respected around the league.” As his farewell tour continues, Kopitar will undoubtedly aim to leave his mark on this crucial game.

The Kings vs Panthers battle is set to ignite at 4:00 PM Pacific time this afternoon! Tune in to FanDuel Sports West or listen via the ESPN LA App and LA Kings App for live coverage.

Game Details

• WHO: Los Angeles Kings (14-9-9) vs. Florida Panthers (17-13-2)
• WHAT: 2025-26 Regular-Season Game 33/82
• WHEN: Wednesday, December 17 @ 4:00 PM Pacific
• WHERE: FLA Live Arena, Sunrise, Florida
• WATCH: FanDuel Sports Network
• LISTEN: ESPN LA 710, ESPN LA App + LA Kings App