Kings Fall to Avalanche as Goaltender Kuemper Leaves Game with Injury
By MICHAEL KELLY, The Associated Press
DENVER — The Los Angeles Kings faced a tough defeat against the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday night, losing 4-2 in a game marked by the early departure of goaltender Darcy Kuemper due to an undisclosed injury. Kuemper made 18 saves before leaving the ice just over five minutes into the third period.
Colorado’s Mikko Rantanen stole the spotlight, scoring twice in the third period to complete his ninth career hat trick. His first goal at 10:01 gave Colorado a critical lead, while he sealed the game with an empty-net goal at 1:59 remaining. Artturi Lehkonen also contributed with a goal, and goaltender Alexandar Georgiev recorded 13 saves for the Avalanche.
Kings forward Adrian Kempe provided the early spark, netting two goals, including one just 32 seconds into the game. Although Lehkonen tied the game for Colorado at 3:40 of the first, Kempe responded with another goal later in the period, giving the Kings a brief advantage. Rantanen struck back, leveling the score again with 3:53 left in the second period.
The Kings faced a particularly difficult second period, failing to record a single shot on goal, tying an NHL record for the fewest shots in a period. Their first shot of the third came just 55 seconds in.
In terms of franchise milestones, Avalanche coach Jared Bednar also made history, coaching his 635th game with the team, surpassing Michel Bergeron for the most in franchise history.
Looking ahead, the Kings will regroup and host the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday at 5 p.m. in hopes of bouncing back from this disappointing loss.
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