Kings aim to snap early losing streak in Vegas showdown

Los Angeles will try to halt a 0-2-1 start on Saturday night at the T-Mobile Arena against a 4-1-0 Vegas Golden Knights team. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper, who posted a .926 save percentage against Vegas last season, is expected to start after sitting out the optional morning skate. The projected lineup features forwards Alex Byfield, Anze Kopitar and Paul Kempe on the top line, with Trevor Moore, Alex Laferriere and Erik Haula forming the second unit. Jared Wright makes his season debut and has just signed a two-year, one-way contract extension.

Vegas entered the game after rallying from a three-goal deficit to defeat Toronto, improving to 4-1-0. Forward Victor Olofsson remains out with injury, while Jack Eichel leads the league in assists and points.

The Kings are missing wingers Mats Zuccarello and Alex Turcotte, both placed on injured reserve, leaving the team short a full forward line. Coach Peter Laviolette said depth will be tested and other players must step up. Moore and Laferriere, who posted strong chemistry last season, are expected to take on larger roles, with Haula providing additional scoring support.

Special-teams play will be critical. Los Angeles recorded a perfect penalty kill on Tuesday and will face a Vegas power play that ranked sixth last season. Forward Erik Haula noted the team’s improved neutral-zone pressure and defensive positioning.

The contest begins at 7:00 p.m. Pacific time.