Kings hope Zuccarello return boosts offense in road opener vs Capitals

Los Angeles begins a five-game road trip on Tuesday night in Washington, where the Kings will face a Capitals team that is 5-3-0 overall and 4-1-0 at home. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper, who has a career 2-5-0 record against Washington, is slated to start for the Kings.

Mats Zuccarello, who has been on injured reserve since early October, is expected to be activated and placed on a line with Trevor Moore and Quinton Byfield. Coach Peter Laviolette said the team is “trending” toward his return and that his presence should help the offense, though minutes will be managed.

"Everything is trending that way," Laviolette said. "I think it helps slot things a little bit, but you have to watch his minutes and where he goes."

The Kings have struggled early, posting a 0-4-2 record and failing to win on the road. Forward Erik Haula noted the need for more traffic in front of the net and faster play.

"We have to find a way to get more traffic in front of the other goalies and just play faster," Haula said.

Washington’s captain Alexander Ovechkin, who announced the 2026-27 season will be his last, leads the Capitals with three points in two games against Los Angeles last season. The Capitals’ depth will test the Kings’ bottom six, which has produced limited scoring so far.

The matchup also marks a personal moment for Laviolette, who previously coached Ovechkin in Washington. He praised the veteran’s love for the game.

"He’s a terrific human being and his love for the game is infectious," Laviolette said.

The game is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. Pacific at Capital One Arena and will be available on regional sports networks and streaming platforms.