Kings Struggle to Maintain Third-Period Lead in Loss to Canadiens

Slafkovsky Sparks Canadiens to Late Victory Over Kings

In a thrilling finish, Juraj Slafkovsky scored his second goal 49 seconds prior to assisting captain Nick Suzuki for a tiebreaking shot, leading the Montreal Canadiens to a 4-3 comeback victory against the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday night.

The Canadiens capped off a challenging three-game California road trip with a late rally driven by their key offensive players. Jake Evans also contributed to the score sheet, while goaltender Jakub Dobes made 35 saves to secure the win.

Shortly after Slafkovsky’s game-tying goal, achieved during Montreal’s sole power play of the night, Cole Caufield created a turnover that set the stage for Suzuki’s one-timer, which found its way below the arm of Kings goalie Darcy Kuemper.

This victory marked Montreal’s NHL-leading 20th comeback win of the season, coming a night after they experienced a disappointing 6-5 shootout loss to the Ducks despite a late surge.

In contrast, the Kings struggled, having lost seven of their last nine games, including two of three under interim head coach D.J. Smith. Alex Laferriere scored the tiebreaking goal early in the third period for Los Angeles, while Scott Laughton marked his debut with a goal after being acquired in a trade from Toronto.

Kings’ captain Anze Kopitar opened the scoring late in the first period, netting his seventh goal of the season and ending a 21-game goal drought dating back to December 8. However, Slafkovsky put the Canadiens ahead in the second period, marking his first goal since January. His performance also secured him the milestone of being the first Canadiens player to achieve three 50-point seasons before turning 22.

Despite a slow start in drawing penalties, the Kings did not take their first infraction until Trevor Moore was sent off for slashing with just under six minutes left in the game, which set the stage for Slafkovsky’s game-tying goal moments later.

Former Canadiens player Phillip Danault received a lukewarm reception during his first game in Los Angeles since returning to Montreal in December. Danault had enjoyed four solid seasons with the Kings but had run into struggles this fall, going goalless for 30 games before reportedly requesting a trade.

Looking ahead, the Kings will head to Columbus on Monday to begin a five-game road trip.