5 Must-See Kings Games in 2019-20

With the first puck drop of the 2019-20 season quickly approaching, general manager Rob Blake and the Los Angeles Kings will soon begin the process of rebuilding. The franchise’s schedule consists of 41 home games for Staples Center’s 20^th anniversary season, 15 back-to-back matchups and an enthusiastic contest at Falcon Stadium in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Below are five must-see Kings games for fans to tune in, whether it’s in Staples Center, on the road or in front of a television.

Welcome to Hockeywood

Oct. 12 vs. Nashville Predators

The Kings will start the 2019-20 season in Canada for three games before hosting the Nashville Predators in their home opener. At that point, hockey will officially be back – but it won’t truly feel definite until the team hits the ice at Staples Center in front of the home crowd.

The Kings will take on a tough squad led by defender and captain Roman Josi. In the first round of the 2018-19 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Nashville Predators were shockingly eliminated by the Dallas Stars in seven games. The franchise has consistently performed well over the last few years, so this game won’t be an easy one.

Not only are the Kings going to face off against the defending Central Division champions, but they’ll welcome Todd McLellan to Kings territory. Entering his 12^thNHL season with Los Angeles, McLellan has racked up an impressive 434-282-90 record as head coach for two fellow Pacific Division rivals: the San Jose Sharks and the Edmonton Oilers.

This matchup marks the second time the event comes to a U.S. service academy, following the 2018 Stadium Series at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium between the Washington Capitals and Toronto Maple Leafs. It will also be the first-ever NHL event hosted at Falcon Stadium, which has a capacity of a little over 46,500.

Final Regular-Season Game

Apr. 4 vs. Dallas Stars

The last game of the regular season is always a bittersweet moment, especially when it’s in front of the home crowd. Los Angeles will conclude Staples Center’s 20^thanniversary season against former King Ben Bishop, Pavelski, Perry and the Stars. At this point, the Kings might be hosting one of hockey’s best teams. 

Only time will tell if the additions of Pavelski and Perry will work in the Stars favor, but given their NHL résumés combined, it should. Los Angeles will also see Bishop one last time for the 2019-20 season. In his very short time with the Kings, the goaltender appeared in seven games and registered a 2-3-2 record.

On the bright side, the Kings will most likely host Fan Appreciation Night for its loyal fans to conclude one of many promotional nights. Past giveaways, jerseys, etc. will be awarded all night long. Regardless if the Kings are getting ready to compete in the playoffs (!) or preparing for the offseason, this is one game fans should attend. Who doesn’t like free hockey gear?