Despite getting two power play goals and out-shooting the Colorado Avalanche 32-16, the Los Angeles Kings lost the finale of their three-game road trip Sunday night in Denver, falling 3-2. Matt Duchene took a Kings' turnover in the neutral zone and scored past Jonathan Quick 1:52 into the third period for the deciding goal.
The Kings had won five straight contests against the Avalanche. The last win for Colorado against the Kings was March 24, 2010 in Denver.
Chuck Kobasew opened the scoring with a shorthanded goal for Colorado 6:55 into the game, but 27 seconds later Scott Parse was able to tie the game for the Kings with a power play goal, assisted by Jarret Stoll. The Kings continued that pattern in the second period, first allowing a goal to the Avalanche before answering. Unfortunately for the Kings they were unable to match Duchene's third period goal.
Anze Kopitar scored the Kings' second power play goal of the night with 1:16 remaining in the second period, when they had a five-on-three advantage. It was the third straight game with a point for Kopitar, who leads Los Angeles this season in goals (six) and assists (eight, tied with Mike Richards). Kopitar has scored in nine of 11 games this season.
The Avalanche were penalized for tripping with 46 seconds remaining in the game, and pulling Quick gave the Kings a six-on-four man advantage. But the Kings were unable to score the equalizer.
The Kings (6-3-2) ended their brief three-game road trip at 1-1-1. Sunday night was the first road loss in regulation for Los Angeles this season. The Kings return home Thursday night to face the Edmonton Oilers.
For more Kings news and notes, be sure to read Jewels From The Crown.