Kings Take Overtime Win Against Flyers After Letting Lead Slip Away
PHILADELPHIA — Adrian Kempe’s standout performance helped the Los Angeles Kings secure a 3-2 victory against the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday. Kempe scored twice in the first period and later provided an assist to Quinton Byfield during overtime.
Kempe’s first goal came just 1:05 into the game, and he quickly added a second just over three minutes later, giving the Kings an early 2-0 lead. Philadelphia fought back, but Kempe later set up Byfield for the decisive goal, a sharp snap shot from the right circle that eluded Flyers goalie Dan Vladar.
A potential third goal for the Kings by Andrei Kuzmenko was nullified after the Flyers challenged for offside, keeping the game within reach for Philadelphia. The Flyers responded with goals from Trevor Zegras and Travis Konecny, pushing the game into overtime.
Konecny’s recent scoring streak continues, as this marks his third consecutive game with a goal. He has recorded at least one point in seven of his last eight games. However, he narrowly missed securing the win in overtime when his breakaway attempt hit the crossbar.
In net, Darcy Kuemper recorded 19 saves for Los Angeles, while Vladar turned away 18 shots for Philadelphia. The Flyers are experiencing a challenging stretch, having lost four straight games and 11 of their last 13.
Los Angeles captain Anze Kopitar made his return to the lineup after missing 11 games due to a lower-body injury. He is just one point shy of becoming the 39th player in NHL history to reach 1,300 career points.
The Kings will conclude their five-game road trip against Carolina on Sunday, while the Flyers are set to host the Washington Capitals on Tuesday.
