Kings Edge Avalanche 5-4 in High-Scoring Clash as Fiala Shines
The Los Angeles Kings secured a pivotal 5-4 victory over the Colorado Avalanche on April 12, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena, moving closer to clinching home-ice advantage in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Kevin Fiala led the charge with two goals, extending his career-high to 34 this season, while Quinton Byfield and Alex Laferriere each contributed a goal and two assists.
Key Performances
Fiala’s second multi-goal game in a row included a critical third-period insurance tally, set up by Laferriere’s relentless forechecking. Byfield opened the scoring early in the first period, marking his third consecutive game with a goal. Laferriere’s one-timer in the second period restored the Kings’ lead after Colorado tied the game. Captain Anze Kopitar added a rebound goal late in the second frame for a 4-2 cushion.
For the Avalanche, Brock Nelson notched his 300th and 301st career goals, becoming the focal point of Colorado’s offense with Nathan MacKinnon and several regulars resting ahead of the playoffs. Valeri Nichushkin and Sam Malinski also scored, with Malinski’s third-period strike briefly narrowing the deficit to 4-3.
Game Dynamics
Los Angeles dominated early, building a 2-0 lead through Byfield’s rush finish and Fiala’s power-play goal. Colorado responded with a 5-on-3 power-play tally from Nelson, followed by Nichushkin’s second-period equalizer. The Kings countered with two quick goals, including Laferriere’s snipe and Kopitar’s rebound, to regain control. Fiala’s second goal at 12:11 of the third period proved decisive, though Nelson’s late strike with the net empty set up a tense finale.
Strategic Context
The Avalanche, locked into the Central Division’s No. 3 seed, rested stars like MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Devon Toews. Despite the absences, Colorado’s depth nearly forced overtime, outshooting Los Angeles 26-33. Kings goaltender Darcy Kuemper ended a 15-game streak of allowing two or fewer goals, making 22 saves against his former team. Colorado’s Mackenzie Blackwood stopped 28 shots in the losing effort.
Playoff Implications
The Kings (10 wins in 13 games) now sit four points behind Pacific-leading Vegas and four ahead of Edmonton, likely setting up a fourth straight first-round matchup with the Oilers. Colorado, already playoff-bound, concludes its regular season in Anaheim.
Standout Moments
Byfield’s Consistency: The 22-year-old forward’s early goal highlighted his growing offensive role.
Nelson’s Milestone: The veteran’s 301st career goal kept Colorado within reach late.
Laferriere’s Emergence: The sophomore’s goal and assist reinforced his value as a two-way threat.
The Kings’ offensive surge (31 goals in seven games) contrasts with their typically defensive identity, signaling momentum heading into the playoffs. Colorado, meanwhile, showcased resilience without key contributors, offering optimism for postseason depth.
Next Games
Colorado faces Anaheim on April 13. Los Angeles visits Edmonton on April 14 in a potential playoff preview.
