In a revenge game for a former goalender, the Washington Capitals found themselves on the losing end in a 3-0 shutout to the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena.
Caps couldn't solve their ex netminder Darcy Kuemper
That's to put it simple. Darcy Kuemper made 21 saves on the night for his third shuout of the season. Warren Foegele go things started for the Kings at 13:08 in the first period. Kevin Fiala then struck on the power play at 1:05 in the third period. Then at 1:52 it was Quinton Byfield to make it 3-0.
Alex Ovechkin was held without a shot as he skated a total of 18:37 on the ice. Kings outshot the Caps 11-10 in the opening period. Caps had the edge in shots 7-6 in the middle frame while they were outshot 10-4 in the third period. Caps were outshot 27-21 overall.
Lars Eller, who skated in his 1,100th career game, spoke to the media following the loss. Via Dan Greenspan of NHL.com:
"Yeah, you've got to give them credit. They played very well and made it hard on us, and we weren't able to find a way through them tonight. When they needed some saves, they got some big saves at some key times, and we didn't execute as well today in the offensive zone maybe as we had in other games. "Lars Eller
Charlie Lindgren made 24 saves for the Caps as their record is now 43-15-8 in the aftermath of their five game winning streak ending. The Kings on the other end win their fourth straight. Washington had five power plays on the night including two in the third which also included 20 seconds at five on three. They finished with eight shots on goal on the attack.
"Well, power play, right away entries were a mess. When we didn't get in, couldn't execute. So, I don't think (Ovechkin) touched the puck let alone had a shot attempt on the power play. "Spencer Carbery
Next up for the Caps is the final game of their trip out to Califorinia. They'll take on the San Jose Sharks at 5 p.m. eastern on Monumental Sports Network. You can also listen to the game on 106.7 The Fan and Caps Radio 24/7.