The Los Angeles Kings have struggled to score this season, currently ranking 29th in the NHL in average goals per game at just 2.53. This offensive deficiency has placed the team in a precarious position, as they are three points outside the final wild-card spot in the Western Conference. The Kings have not won a playoff series since their Stanley Cup victory in 2014, and they are in danger of missing the playoffs for the first time in five seasons.
Recent Developments
In a recent game on March 7, 2026, Anze Kopitar contributed one assist in the Kings’ 5-3 victory over the New York Islanders, helping the team end a five-game losing streak. Despite this win, Kopitar’s season has been challenging; he has recorded 25 points (6 goals, 19 assists) in 46 games so far. The Kings made headlines earlier this month by firing head coach Jim Hiller on March 1, 2026, and naming D.J. Smith as the interim head coach.
Kopitar addressed the team’s performance, stating, “We’ve just got to flat-out perform better.” His comments reflect the urgency felt within the organization as they navigate the remainder of the season. The Kings were expected to perform better in Kopitar’s final campaign, but the current situation has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike.
Looking Ahead
As the Kings move forward, they have one of the NHL’s easier schedules over their final 23 games, which could provide an opportunity to improve their standing. Observers are closely watching how the team responds to the coaching change and whether they can rally to secure a playoff spot before the season concludes.
