WINNIPEG, Manitoba — In an exciting showdown on Friday night, Adrian Kempe executed a slick move into the slot and found the back of the net with a wrist shot aimed at the top right corner, securing a 2-1 overtime victory for the Los Angeles Kings against the Winnipeg Jets. This marked the Kings’ first match in nearly a week due to delays caused by wildfires.

Alex Turcotte contributed to the Kings’ success by scoring one of the goals, and Darcy Kuemper showcased his skills by making 18 saves, enabling Los Angeles to extend their winning streak to five games. This contest was significant for the Kings as it was their first since they triumphed over Tampa Bay last Saturday. A game against Calgary, originally scheduled for Wednesday, had to be postponed.

Turcotte got the Kings on the scoreboard first at 4:39 in the second period, skillfully redirecting a shot taken by Adrian Kempe from the blue line. The Jets responded later when Mark Scheifele scored on a power play with 9:38 remaining in the period, netting his 24th goal of the season. Scheifele capitalized on a well-timed centering pass from Gabriel Vilardi, quickly firing a shot into the open left side of the net to even the game.

In goal, Jets’ Eric Comrie made 21 saves, but it wasn’t enough to prevent the loss. Despite the defeat, Winnipeg managed to earn a point in the standings, allowing them to tie with Vegas and Washington at the top of the NHL with 59 points.

Key observations from the match include the Kings’ ability to register 23 shots on goal, while successfully blocking 11 of Winnipeg’s attempts. On the other hand, the Jets struggled offensively, only testing Kuemper with four shots in the first period and five in the second.

Looking ahead, Los Angeles is set to face Calgary again on Saturday night, followed by games in Edmonton on Monday, Vancouver on Thursday, and Seattle on Saturday, January 18th. On the same night, the Jets will also return to action as they host the Colorado Avalanche.