Here are the key storylines and upcoming schedule for the Los Angeles Kings for the week of Jan. 5–12, 2026.
Trying to Build Momentum
The Kings are currently fighting to stabilize their season after a rocky December. They enter the week coming off a dramatic 5-4 shootout victory over the Minnesota Wild on Saturday (Jan. 3), where defenseman Brandt Clarke scored the shootout winner. The team is currently sitting 5th in the Pacific Division (17-14-9 record) and desperately needs points to stay in the Wild Card hunt.
Corey Perry’s Hot Streak
Veteran forward Corey Perry, acquired to bring grit and experience, has found a scoring touch recently. He recorded a three-assist game against his former team, the Tampa Bay Lightning, on New Year’s Day and added a goal in the recent win against Minnesota. He has been a bright spot offensively.
Youth Movement Stepping Up
With injuries plaguing the lineup earlier in the season, the Kings are relying heavily on their younger core. Quinton Byfield continues to find the net (scoring in the Jan. 3 win), and rookie Samuel Helenius just netted his first goal of the season. The integration of these younger players alongside veterans like Anze Kopitar (who has returned to the lineup after missing time earlier in the season) is critical for their playoff push.
Kings Schedule Jan 5 – 12
| Date | Opponent | Time (ET) | Venue | Notes |
| Mon, Jan 5 | vs. Minnesota Wild | 10:30 PM | Crypto.com Arena | Immediate rematch of Saturday’s SO win. |
| Wed, Jan 7 | vs. San Jose Sharks | 10:30 PM | Crypto.com Arena | A crucial divisional matchup against a rebuilding Sharks team. |
| Fri, Jan 9 | @ Winnipeg Jets | 8:00 PM | Canada Life Centre | Start of a back-to-back. |
| Sat, Jan 10 | @ Edmonton Oilers | 10:00 PM | Rogers Place | Difficult back-to-back game against Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. |
| Mon, Jan 12 | vs. Dallas Stars | 10:00 PM | Crypto.com Arena | Return home to face one of the West’s top contenders. |
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