LOS ANGELES — Robert Thomas emerged as the hero in a tense showdown as the St. Louis Blues edged out the Los Angeles Kings 3-2 in a shootout on Wednesday night. Thomas was instrumental throughout the game, contributing a crucial goal in regulation and securing the game-winner in the shootout, extending his remarkable point streak to 11 games. The Blues, playing the second game of their six-game travel stretch, made an impactful start to their Southern California tour.
Jake Neighbours also found the back of the net for St. Louis, scoring late in the first period. Jordan Binnington stood strong between the pipes, making 21 critical saves to thwart the Kings’ attempts and help halt their five-game losing streak. The Blues have been in formidable form recently, boasting a 6-1-1 record over their last eight matches.
On the opposing side, Quinton Byfield and Trevor Moore scored for the Kings. Darcy Kuemper was kept busy throughout the match, registering 28 saves, but the team’s ongoing struggles extended as they faced another defeat. Byfield managed to equalize the game just 32 seconds after Neighbours’ goal with a swift response. Moore then propelled the Kings into a short-lived lead in the second period when he netted his sixth goal in 11 games.
The drama intensified in the second period as Thomas responded with a power-play goal, tying the game with only 47 seconds remaining before intermission. This goal was a testament to both his skill and the Blues’ relentless pressure.
During overtime, Binnington proved vital once again, denying the Kings during two critical breakaways and later shutting down Adrian Kempe and Trevor Moore in the shootout. His exceptional performance fortified the Blues’ defensive line and underscored the key moment of the game, keeping their momentum intact.
The Kings’ position remains static in third place within the Pacific Division despite their recent series of setbacks. With no games scheduled until Saturday, they will have time to regroup and strategize ahead of their upcoming clash.
Looking ahead, the Blues continue their California road trip with a game against Anaheim on Friday night, before making their way back to Crypto.com Arena for another encounter with the Kings on Saturday. St. Louis seeks to maintain their winning form as they push through this rigorous travel schedule.
