The LA Kings have taken the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs by storm, stunning the hockey world with back-to-back wins against the Edmonton Oilers. Now, the series heads north to Rogers Place, where the Kings can grab a commanding 3-0 lead in this best-of-seven Western Conference first round. This pivotal Game 3 carries massive implications for both teams and could mark a defining moment in the LA Kings’ postseason campaign.

Kings’ Hot Start: Special Teams & Balanced Scoring

Few predicted such a powerful opening act from the LA Kings. Their success so far owes much to both their discipline and efficiency on special teams. Los Angeles has gone 5-for-10 on the power play and maintained a perfect penalty kill, shutting down all Oilers opportunities with the man advantage. This special teams dominance is a key storyline in the series. As highlighted in NHL.com's Game 3 preview, Adrian Kempe leads the Kings with seven points in just two games. Veterans Anze Kopitar and Andrei Kuzmenko each have five points, providing impressive depth scoring that has kept the Oilers reeling.

Game 1 saw the Kings stave off an Oilers comeback for a thrilling 6-5 win. In Game 2, the Kings pulled away late, sealing a decisive 6-2 result. LA’s ability to capitalize on scoring chances and defend crucial moments has set the tone early in this highly anticipated matchup.

Mental Edge and Road Strategy

The series shifts to Edmonton, where the LA Kings face a new challenge: success on the road. Head coach Jim Hiller emphasizes that focus and preparation remain essential. He credits his team’s intensity and discipline, noting, “We’re just not going to try to overthink too much. We liked how we’re playing.”

Forwards like Phillip Danault and Trevor Moore relish tough matchups against the Oilers’ offensive stars. As discussed in the LA Kings Insider Game 3 preview, the Kings trust their depth at center and flexibility on defense. This allows them to respond confidently to the Oilers’ attempts to exploit home-ice matchups, a common tactical battle in the playoffs.

LA’s mentality is to take the series one game at a time. Players and coaches alike have echoed that the job isn’t done until four wins are secured. The focus remains consistent: playing their style, denying mistakes, and maintaining composure in the face of increased pressure from the Edmonton crowd.

Oilers’ Struggles and the Kings’ Opportunity

The Oilers, last year’s Western Conference champions, now face a 2-0 deficit. Head coach Kris Knoblauch pointed out in a recent ESPN analysis that costly defensive lapses and undisciplined play have plagued Edmonton through the first two games. Goaltending questions linger as Calvin Pickard replaces Stuart Skinner, aiming to stop the Kings’ relentless attack. Despite star power from the likes of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Oilers have struggled to shut down LA’s dynamic forward lines.

The Kings are now in a position to make franchise history. They have not held a 2-0 lead in a best-of-seven series since their epic 2014 Stanley Cup run. Clinching Game 3 would set them just one win away from advancing to the second round—a feat they have not achieved in over a decade.

Game 3: What to Watch For

• Goaltender battle: Darcy Kuemper remains solid for LA, while Pickard looks to stabilize the Oilers net.
• Key matchups: The Kings’ centers will again face McDavid and Draisaitl. Danault’s line, in particular, draws the toughest assignments.
• Special teams: Can the Kings continue to dominate both the power play and penalty kill, or will the Oilers make much-needed adjustments?
• Momentum shift: Will Edmonton’s home crowd spark a turnaround, or will the Kings’ composure carry them to another road victory?

For full lineups, statistics, and further analysis, visit the NHL official series preview and LA Kings Insider breakdown.

Conclusion: Can the LA Kings Make It Three Straight?

Game 3 is a turning point for both franchises. The LA Kings have carved out an early playoff narrative with gutsy wins, balanced offense, and disciplined play. With momentum on their side, their eyes are set on extending the series lead. As the Oilers search for answers, the Kings are determined to seize their chance and take a crucial step toward advancing. Tune in to see if Los Angeles can continue making history.