Full Breakdown
Kings and Avalanche Kick Off 2025-26 NHL Season
10/8/2025, 7:17:11 AM
Game Overview: Kings vs. Avalanche
The Los Angeles Kings (0-0-0) host the Colorado Avalanche (0-0-0) on October 7, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. This matchup marks the opening game of the 2025-26 NHL season, part of a season-opening tripleheader. The puck drops at 10:30 PM ET, with the game available for viewing on ESPN and streaming via Fubo.
Team Context and Recent Performance
Both teams are looking to rebound from disappointing playoff exits last season. The Kings were eliminated in the first round by the Edmonton Oilers for the fourth consecutive year, while the Avalanche fell to the Dallas Stars in a seven-game series. The Kings finished the previous season with a record of 48-25-9, tying a franchise record with 105 points, while the Avalanche posted a 49-29-4 record.
Los Angeles aims to make the most of captain Anze Kopitar's final NHL season. Kopitar, who has been a pivotal player for the Kings, announced that this would be his last season, adding a layer of urgency to the team's performance. The Kings have retained much of their core, including forwards Adrian Kempe and Kevin Fiala, who both scored 35 goals last season.
Conversely, the Avalanche welcome back captain Gabriel Landeskog, who has not played a regular-season game since March 2022 due to injury. His return is expected to bolster Colorado's already potent offense, which features stars like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar.
Key Players to Watch
For the Kings, Kopitar is a focal point, especially given his history of strong performances on opening night. He has maintained a seven-year point streak in season openers, including multiple multi-point games. Additionally, forward Alex Laferriere is anticipated to play after recovering from an injury, providing further offensive depth.
On the Avalanche side, Landeskog's performance will be closely monitored as he aims to make an immediate impact. MacKinnon, who finished second in the league with 116 points last season, remains a critical offensive threat. The Avalanche's defense will be anchored by Makar, the reigning Norris Trophy winner.
Official Statements & Responses
Kings head coach Jim Hiller expressed optimism about his team's readiness for the season, emphasizing the importance of starting strong. "We want to make the most of it and I think we will," he stated. Meanwhile, defenseman Drew Doughty noted the team's focus on winning the division, saying, "We’re definitely playing to win in the playoffs but that’s so far away, we’re just trying to win the division."
Avalanche coach Jared Bednar highlighted the significance of Landeskog's return, stating, "Having Gabriel back is huge for our team. His leadership and skill are invaluable."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the Kings' strong home record last season, some analysts suggest they may be overvalued in this matchup. Critics point to the team's recent playoff struggles and roster changes, including the loss of defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov to the New York Rangers. Additionally, the Avalanche's depth and elite talent have led some to consider them slight favorites despite their recent playoff disappointments.
What's Next
Following this opening game, both teams will look to build momentum for the rest of the season. The Kings will aim to establish themselves as serious contenders in the Western Conference, while the Avalanche will seek to capitalize on their returning stars and improve upon their recent playoff performances.
As the 2025-26 NHL season begins, the matchup between the Kings and Avalanche promises to be a compelling contest, setting the tone for both teams' campaigns.
