The Los Angeles Kings (21-16-13) and head coach Jim Hiller secured two crucial points in the standings during a pivotal game against the St. Louis Blues (19-24-9) on January 24. The Kings, playing on the road in Missouri, managed to pull off a 5-4 shootout victory that not only extended their point streak in the West to five games but also set the tone for an upcoming six-game road trip.

The game started with the Kings taking an early 2-0 lead in the first period, establishing momentum against the Blues. However, the Blues responded strongly in the second period, tying the game and creating a tense atmosphere. Despite this, the Kings found key goals from Alex Laferriere and Trevor Moore in the third period, which proved critical in securing the win.

Hiller and his team faced challenges in maintaining leads throughout the game, particularly in the second and third periods. However, the resilience shown by the Kings was evident, especially with Darcy Kuemper and Adrian Kempe making significant contributions in the shootout. Kuemper made several clutch saves, while Kempe and Moore each scored in the shootout, with Moore delivering the game-winning goal in his first game back with the team.

Here are three notable players from the Kings’ 5-4 shootout win over the Blues:

Stud: Alex Laferriere, Forward

Laferriere played a vital role in the Kings’ comeback, scoring the game-tying goal in the second period. His ability to step up in high-pressure moments has been a consistent strength for the team this season. Laferriere’s goal came off a well-executed play involving veteran forward Corey Perry, showcasing his offensive skills and timing.

His performance in the game marked his first point in seven games, adding to the momentum for the Kings. Laferriere’s contribution helped shift the energy of the game, giving the team a much-needed boost heading into the final frame.

Dud: Andrei Kuzmenko, Forward

Despite his previous success, Kuzmenko struggled to make an impact in the final period of the game. He had a chance to give the Kings the lead but was denied by the Blues’ goalie, Joel Hofer. Kuzmenko’s limited ice time and lack of involvement in the third period were notable, as he played under 15 minutes for the first time in three consecutive games.

However, Kuzmenko did show some defensive grit, recording a season-high two blocked shots and a takeaway. These efforts highlighted his versatility, even if they didn’t translate into offensive success in this particular game.

Stud: Trevor Moore, Forward

Moore’s return to the active roster was a significant factor in the Kings’ victory. His game-tying goal in the third period was instrumental in pushing the game to overtime. Without his goal, the Kings might not have had the opportunity to secure the two points in the standings.

Moore’s performance in the shootout sealed the win, and his reliability on the ice was praised by Hiller. After being sidelined due to injury, Moore’s return provided a much-needed spark for the team as they began their six-game road trip.