UPDATE: In a thrilling overtime finish, Adrian Kempe scored just 37 seconds into the extra period, propelling the Los Angeles Kings to a 3-2 victory over the Dallas Stars on December 28, 2023. This marks Kempe’s second consecutive game winning goal in overtime, further deepening the Stars’ struggles as they face their fourth straight loss.
The game unfolded at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, where Darcy Kuemper showcased his skills with 29 saves, while former Stars Corey Perry and Cody Ceci also contributed goals for the Kings. The victory is particularly significant as it represents the Kings’ first win in regulation this season.
The Stars, now in a slump, have not faced such a losing streak before New Year’s since October 25-November 2, 2021. Wyatt Johnston and Jason Robertson scored for the Stars, with Johnston also adding an assist, but it was not enough to halt their downward trend.
Kempe’s decisive goal came from the slot after a crucial pass from Quinton Byfield, who recorded his second assist of the match. “It was a tough game, but we came out strong in overtime,” Kempe said post-game. The Kings executed a lone rush in overtime, and Kempe capitalized on it, sealing the win for Los Angeles.
Perry opened the scoring late in the first period by knocking in a rebound on a five-on-three power play, giving the Kings an early edge. Just 1:29 after Robertson tied the game at 1-1 early in the second period, Ceci responded with a slap shot deflected off Dallas’ Mavrik Bourque, putting the Kings back in the lead.
Johnston’s power-play goal in the third tied the score once more at 2-2, but the Kings held firm. Notably, Los Angeles had an earlier goal by Alex Laferriere disallowed after a video review determined his stick was too high.
The Stars’ goalie Jake Oettinger managed to stop 22 shots, but the Kings’ offensive surge proved too much. Dallas’ Roope Hintz contributed with two assists, but ultimately, the team’s inability to secure a win continues to haunt them.
As the Kings celebrate this vital win, they look to build momentum moving forward in the season. Fans will be keenly watching how Dallas responds to this urgent situation as they prepare for their next matchup. Will the Kings ride this wave of success, or can the Stars turn their fortunes around? Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
