Kings Collapse in Crushing Game 3 Defeat as Oilers Rally Late

Los Angeles Falters in Critical Moments, Edmonton Takes 2-1 Series Lead

The Los Angeles Kings suffered a heartbreaking loss in Game 3 against the Edmonton Oilers, squandering a late lead as Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl ignited a third-period comeback. The 4-3 defeat leaves the Kings trailing 2-1 in the series, with Game 4 looming as a must-win.

Key Moments That Decided the Game

• Early Dominance: The Kings controlled the first period, with goals from Adrian Kempe and Phillip Danault giving them a 2-0 lead.
• Oilers Respond: McDavid sliced through LA’s defense late in the second, slipping a backhander past Cam Talbot.
• Third-Period Meltdown: Draisaitl tied it early in the third, followed by Evan Bouchard’s go-ahead blast just 90 seconds later.
• Empty-Netter Seals It: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins iced the game with an empty-net goal before Trevor Moore’s late consolation tally.

Where the Kings Went Wrong

1. Defensive Breakdowns: Edmonton exploited gaps in LA’s neutral-zone coverage, with McDavid and Draisaitl combining for 7 points.
2. Power Play Struggles: The Kings went 0-for-4 on the man advantage, including a critical failed opportunity in the third.
3. Goaltending Questions: Talbot’s .857 save percentage raised concerns after a stellar Game 2 performance.

What’s Next?

Game 4 becomes a virtual must-win for Los Angeles to avoid returning to Edmonton facing elimination. Coach Jim Hiller must address:

• Line chemistry after mid-game shuffles failed to spark offense
• Penalty kill adjustments after allowing 2 PPGs
• Containing McDavid’s speed through center ice

What Do You Think?

• Should the Kings start David Rittich in Game 4 after Talbot's shaky performance?
• Is Drew Doughty’s physical play crossing the line after his controversial hit on Hyman?
• Does this loss expose the Kings as pretenders rather than contenders?
• Should the NHL review Edmonton’s second goal for potential goaltender interference?

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