Event Preview
Overview
The Los Angeles Kings are set to host the Dallas Stars at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 7:00 PM PST. This Western Conference matchup is pivotal for both teams as they vie for playoff positioning. The Stars, currently second in the Central Division, are looking to extend their lead, while the Kings, positioned fifth in the Pacific Division, aim to close the gap and improve their standing.
Season Snapshot
Dallas Stars
- Record: 26 wins, 10 losses, 9 overtime losses
- Standings: 2nd in the Central Division
- Offense: Averaging 3.4 goals per game, ranking 2nd in the league
- Defense: Allowing 2.8 goals per game, ranking 9th in the league
- Power Play: 29.1% conversion rate, 2nd in the league
- Penalty Kill: 79.6% efficiency
Los Angeles Kings
- Record: 19 wins, 15 losses, 10 overtime losses
- Standings: 5th in the Pacific Division
- Offense: Averaging 2.6 goals per game, ranking 29th in the league
- Defense: Allowing 2.7 goals per game, ranking 3rd in the league
- Power Play: 15.8% conversion rate, 28th in the league
- Penalty Kill: 76.8% efficiency
Recent Form
Dallas Stars
- Last 5 Games: 1 win, 4 losses
- Notable Result: 5-4 overtime loss to the San Jose Sharks on January 10, 2026
- Injuries: Jamie Benn (upper body) is expected to be out until at least January 13, 2026. (cbssports.com)
Los Angeles Kings
- Last 5 Games: 3 wins, 2 losses
- Notable Result: 4-3 shootout victory over the Edmonton Oilers on January 10, 2026
- Injuries: Anze Kopitar (lower body) is expected to be out until at least January 14, 2026. (cbssports.com)
Talking Points
- Offensive vs. Defensive Battle: The Stars' high-powered offense faces the Kings' stingy defense.
- Special Teams Showdown: Dallas boasts a potent power play; can Los Angeles' penalty kill withstand the pressure?
- Injury Impact: How will the absences of key players like Benn and Kopitar affect each team's performance?
- Playoff Implications: A crucial game for both teams in their quest for postseason positioning.
Players to Watch
- Mikko Rantanen (Dallas Stars): Leads the team with 17 goals and 42 assists, totaling 59 points.
- Jason Robertson (Dallas Stars): Second on the team with 25 goals and 27 assists, totaling 52 points.
- Adrian Kempe (Los Angeles Kings): Leads the Kings with 15 goals and 19 assists, totaling 34 points.
- Kevin Fiala (Los Angeles Kings): Second on the team with 16 goals and 15 assists, totaling 31 points.
- Anze Kopitar (Los Angeles Kings): Despite being sidelined, his leadership and playmaking are crucial for the Kings.
Key Matchups & Storylines
- Offensive Firepower vs. Defensive Solidity: Dallas' 2nd-ranked offense faces Los Angeles' 3rd-ranked defense.
- Special Teams Battle: Dallas' 2nd-ranked power play against Los Angeles' 28th-ranked penalty kill.
- Injury Effects: The absence of key players like Benn and Kopitar could shift team dynamics.
Fun Facts
- The Stars have scored 154 goals this season, the 2nd most in the league.
- The Kings have allowed only 120 goals, the 3rd fewest in the league.
- Dallas' power play operates at a 29.1% success rate, ranking 2nd in the league.
- Los Angeles leads the NHL with 7 shorthanded goals this season.
Things to Chirp About
- "Can the Kings' defense hold up against the Stars' high-powered offense?"
- "Will the Stars' power play continue its dominance against the Kings' penalty kill?"
- "How will the absence of Jamie Benn impact the Stars' offensive strategy?"
- "With Anze Kopitar out, who steps up for the Kings in the faceoff circle?"
Prediction
This matchup promises a compelling clash between Dallas' offensive prowess and Los Angeles' defensive resilience. While the Stars have the edge in scoring, the Kings' disciplined defense and home-ice advantage could keep the game close. The outcome may hinge on special teams performance and the ability to capitalize on power play opportunities.