The Los Angeles Kings have reached a fork in the road. With the 2024-25 NHL post-season approaching, the possibility of a fourth consecutive first-round playoff meeting with the Edmonton Oilers looms.
The Kings have always had to travel to Edmonton to begin the first-round series in their last three playoff meetings. They have a history of struggling on the road, as even this season, they are under .500 away from Los Angeles.
The Kings must do what they can to alter their playoff fate. Securing the second seed in the Pacific Division and the home-ice advantage could be the difference-maker in ending their recent playoff struggles against Edmonton.
Recent Playoff History: A Hurdle to Overcome
The Kings’ recent playoff series against the Oilers has been challenging. The two teams have met thrice in the first round since 2022, and Edmonton has won each time.
2022: The Oilers clinched the series in seven games.
2023: Edmonton advanced after six games.
2024: The Oilers dominated, winning the series in five games.
Historically, the Oilers have had the upper hand, with an 8-2 playoff series advantage over the Kings and an overall 36-18 postseason record in games.
However, the focal point of these losses has been Edmonton’s firepower on offense, led by Conor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The two players have consistently capitalized on the defensive vulnerabilities in LA’s system, recording several big games across these series. They’ve also held a significant edge in special teams, specifically on the power play, where they have hurt the Kings the most.
The Importance of Home-Ice Advantage
One of the key aspects of this series has been that the Kings have been better on the road against the Oilers than at home. In all the meetings they’ve faced each other in the last three playoffs, the Kings have managed to get a 1-1 split on the road in Edmonton but have struggled to win at home, losing both games in LA last playoffs. But, this time, if the first two games are played in Crypto.com Arena, the Kings should have an advantage with their recent track record of winning games in Edmonton.
Grabbing the second seed in the Pacific Division would give the Kings home-ice advantage in the first round against the Oilers and could shift the series' balance. The home-ice advantage is always significant, especially in the playoffs, where the crowd is in your favor, boosting the energy into the player's games.
Current Standings: A Tight Race
As of March 17, 2025, the Pacific Division standings are:
1. Vegas Golden Knights: 39-20-8 (86 Points)
2. Edmonton Oilers: 39-24-4 (82 Points)
3. Los Angeles Kings: 36-20-9 (81 Points)
The Kings are one point behind the Oilers and have played fewer games, so the race for the second seed—and that coveted home-ice advantage—is intensely competitive.
It all comes down to how the Kings finish their season. Their next two games, which will be on the road against the Wild and Blackhawks, can elevate them to the second seed if they can grab both games and hope the Oilers at least lose one of their next three.
Smart Move: To Confront or Avoid the Oilers?
The Kings have a choice about how they want to position themselves when the playoffs begin. But eventually, they're going to face the Oilers or another team that may give them matchup problems, so it’s better to get them while you're healthy and fresh.
Still, with the moves they made at the deadline, improving their depth on offense and defense, the Kings’ shouldn’t worry about who they face in the playoffs; they should game plan on how to beat them and take it game by game.
Pursue the Second Seed: The Kings would secure a home-ice advantage by overtaking the Oilers for a probable first-round playoff series. That can be significant in the context of recent postseason losses to Edmonton without home ice.
Shoot against a Different Foe: Alternatively, the Kings might set themselves up to play another team in the first round, such as the Vegas Golden Knights or a wild-card team, by potentially bypassing the Oilers altogether. However, this comes with risks involved, as maneuvering for the position is never a walk in the park or assured of better matchups that can carry you to a deep playoff run; it can end with the same results.
Coaching and Roster Depth: A New Hope
There are several reasons why the Kings are better set up this year to handle the Oilers and why they should not duck them.
Goaltending Greatness: Darcy Kuemper has been outstanding, recording multiple shutouts in recent games, such as a 3-0 victory over the Washington Capitals on March 14. Also, he was just named the NHL 1st Star of the Week, showcasing what an asset he will be come playoff time for the Kings.
You're a star, Darce 🌟 https://t.co/LWshUqQPOBpic.twitter.com/8p3f1MwsT9
— LA Kings (@LAKings) March 17, 2025
Emerging Offense Stars: The Young Forward Quinton Byfield has been scorching hot, currently on a six-game goal streak, contributing crucial goals in their five-game winning streak.
PK Dominance: The Kings' penalty kill has been exceptional. They successfully extinguished all eight power plays against the New York Islanders on March 12.
Quinton Byfield's currently on a SIX game goal streak.
— PuckEmpire (@puckempire) March 16, 2025
(via @realapp_) pic.twitter.com/uNzuIxKlDd
Conclusion: Taking the Challenge
While the prospect of facing the Oilers in the playoffs brings memories of past letdowns, the Kings can rewrite the script. By prioritizing their quest for the second seed and subsequent home-ice benefit, the Kings can place themselves in the best position possible for post-season success.
Improved goaltending, emerging offensive studs, and stellar special teams offer the Kings all the ammunition to pound the playoff failures in the past and advance beyond round one.
The coming weeks will be crucial as the Kings look to climb up the table and prepare for what lies ahead.