Game Information: Buffalo Sabres vs. Los Angeles Kings
Matchup: Buffalo Sabres (8-9-1) vs. Los Angeles Kings (10-6-3)
Date & Time: Wednesday, November 20th, 2024, at 10:30 PM EST
Location: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, California
TV Coverage: MSG (local broadcast)
Streaming (Out of Market): ESPN+
Radio Broadcast: WGR 550
Sabres vs. Kings Preview: Key Storylines and Lineup Changes for Tonight’s Matchup
The Buffalo Sabres are set to kick off their California road trip with a renewed focus following a tough loss in Philadelphia. Injuries to key players have been a hurdle, but the team is optimistic about reinforcements. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is expected to return as the starting goaltender after missing two games, providing stability in the crease. The availability of Tage Thompson, the team’s leading goal scorer, and Alex Tuch remains uncertain as game-time decisions loom. Both players participated in practice earlier this week, giving hope for their return.
The Sabres have emphasized avoiding consecutive losses, a mindset driven by head coach Lindy Ruff. With the team sitting just two points shy of a playoff spot, maintaining discipline and avoiding mistakes will be critical. Their focus on clean puck management and reducing turnovers will be key against a defensively sound Los Angeles Kings squad.
This matchup marks the second meeting of the season between the Sabres and Kings. The Sabres dominated in shot totals during their first encounter but were unable to capitalize, falling short due to a stellar performance by the Kings’ goaltender. With the Kings tightening up defensively and coming into this game in strong form, the Sabres will need to elevate their offensive execution.
Sabres vs. Kings: Team Records and Division Standings Breakdown
Heading into tonight’s matchup, the Buffalo Sabres hold an 8-9-1 record, placing them sixth in the Atlantic Division. Despite their sub-.500 record, the Sabres remain in striking distance of a playoff spot, sitting just two points behind the final Wild Card position in the Eastern Conference. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Kings have been more consistent, boasting a 10-6-3 record. They currently sit second in the Pacific Division and hold the fourth spot in the Western Conference standings.
Recent Form Analysis: Sabres and Kings Heading Into Tonight’s Showdown
Buffalo Sabres
The Buffalo Sabres have been streaky over their last ten games, posting a 5-5 record. Their most recent outing was a disappointing 5-2 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers, where defensive lapses and inconsistent puck management proved costly. As they begin their California road trip, the Sabres will aim to find more consistency and avoid falling into a losing streak.
Los Angeles Kings
The Los Angeles Kings have a slightly better record over their last ten games, going 5-4-1. They come into this matchup riding the momentum of a solid 4-1 victory over the Detroit Red Wings. The Kings showcased a strong defensive effort in that game, and with their ability to capitalize on opportunities, they’ll look to carry that form into tonight’s contest against Buffalo.
Top Players to Watch in Sabres vs. Kings Matchup
Buffalo Sabres: JJ Peterka Poised to Lead Sabres’ Offense in Showdown with Kings
In tonight’s matchup against the Los Angeles Kings, JJ Peterka stands out as a key player for the Buffalo Sabres. Riding a six-game point streak, Peterka has been a consistent offensive presence with three goals and five assists during that stretch.
Los Angeles Kings: Anze Kopitar: Kings’ Offensive Catalyst Set to Challenge Sabres
For the Kings, Anze Kopitar remains a central figure to watch. The veteran forward leads the team in scoring with 21 points and was the difference-maker in their previous meeting with Buffalo, recording a third-period hat trick.
Did You Know? Facts About Tonight’s Sabres vs. Kings Matchup
Rasmus Dahlin and JJ Peterka Streaking
Both Dahlin and Peterka are riding six-game point streaks heading into tonight’s game. They’ve combined for 17 points during this stretch, driving the Sabres’ offensive momentum.
Injury Updates and Lineup News From NHL.com
Sabres projected lineup
JJ Peterka — Ryan McLeod — Alex Touch
Zach Benson — Dylan Cozens — Jack Quinn
Jason Zucker — Jiri Kulich — Sam Lafferty
Beck Malenstyn — Peyton Krebs — Nicolas Aube-Kubel
Rasmus Dahlin — Bowen Byram
Dennis Gilbert — Henri Jokiharju
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen
Scratched: Isak Rosen, Connor Clifton
Injured: Tage Thompson (lower body), Mattias Samuelsson (lower body), Jordan Greenway (undisclosed)
Kings projected lineup
Alex Turcotte — Anze Kopitar — Adrian Kempe
Warren Foegele — Quinton Byfield — Alex Laferriere
Trevor Moore — Phillip Danault — Kevin Fiala
Trevor Lewis — Samuel Helenius — Tanner Jeannot
Mikey Anderson — Vladislav Gavrikov
Joel Edmundson — Brandt Clarke
Jacob Moverare — Jordan Spence
Erik Portillo
Scratched: Andreas Englund, Kyle Burroughs, Akil Thomas
Injured: Darcy Kuemper (upper body), Caleb Jones (upper body), Drew Doughty (ankle), Arthur Kaliyev (clavicle)
Buffalo Sabres: Updated Lines from Practice today
Tage Thompson didn't take line rushes, which is another sign that he's not playing in LA.
— Lance Lysowski (@LLysowski) November 20, 2024
The Sabres' lines/pairs at the skate:
Peterka-McLeod-Rosén
Benson-Cozens-Lafferty
Zucker-Kulich-Quinn
Malenstyn-Krebs-NAK
Dahlin-Bryam
Power-Jokiharju
Bryson-Clifton
Gilbert
Fan Engagement: Share Your Thoughts!
Sabres fans, we want to hear from you! Who do you think will step up big in tonight’s game against the Kings? Will JJ Peterka continue his hot streak, or will someone else rise to the occasion? How do you see this matchup playing out as the Sabres kick off their California road trip? Drop your predictions, thoughts, and favorite pregame rituals in the comments or join the conversation on Twitter/X @SabresInsight! Let’s get the energy going before the puck drops!