NHL Game Preview: Calgary Flames (40-27-14) vs. Los Angeles Kings (48-24-9)

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The Calgary Flames (40-27-14) and Los Angeles Kings (48-24-9) are set to face off in their final regular-season matchup at Crypto.com Arena. While the Kings have already secured a playoff spot, the Flames are looking to close out their season on a strong note.

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Game Details

  • Matchup: Calgary Flames vs. Los Angeles Kings
  • Date: Thursday, April 17, 2025
  • Location: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
  • Time: 9:30 p.m. ET
  • Broadcast: ESPN, Sportsnet

Recent Form & Team Outlook

The Flames have won four of their last five games, showing resilience despite missing out on the playoffs. They recently defeated the Vegas Golden Knights 5-4 in a shootout, erasing a 3-1 deficit to secure the victory.

Meanwhile, the Kings have been dominant, winning eight of their last nine games. They clinched the second seed in the Pacific Division after a 5-0 shutout victory over the Edmonton Oilers.

Head-to-Head Matchup

  • Calgary won both previous meetings this season, 3-1 and 2-1.
  • The Kings have struggled against the Flames, averaging 30.5 shots per game but failing to convert efficiently.
  • Calgary’s save percentage ranks third-best against Los Angeles, making it a tough matchup for the Kings.

Key Players to Watch

  • Calgary Flames:
    • Jonathan Huberdeau – Scored a goal against the Kings in their last matchup.
    • Morgan Frost – Converted a power-play opportunity and scored the shootout winner against Vegas.
    • Dustin Wolf – Expected to start in net, holding a 2.64 GAA and .910 save percentage.
  • Los Angeles Kings:
    • Samuel Helenius – Scored twice in the Kings’ 6-5 win over Seattle.
    • Quinton Byfield – Listed as day-to-day, but his absence could impact the Kings’ offense.
    • Darcy Kuemper – Recorded a 5-0 shutout against Edmonton, boasting a 2.02 GAA and .922 save percentage.

Matchup Breakdown

  • Flames’ Defense vs. Kings’ Offense:
    Calgary has been strong defensively, while Los Angeles has been efficient at converting scoring chances.
  • Kings’ Playoff Preparation:
    With several key players listed as day-to-day, Los Angeles may rest some starters ahead of the postseason.
  • Power Play Battle:
    Calgary has struggled on the man advantage, going 3-for-20 before their last game.

Calgary Flames                                 5.5

Los Angeles Kings                            – 155

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, April 16, 2025