NHL Matchup Preview: Kings Gear Up to Face Kraken with Kopitar in Spotlight

Los Angeles Kings vs. Seattle Kraken Preview

The Los Angeles Kings are enjoying a boost in offensive production since the addition of skilled forward Artemi Panarin, who has been placed on Anze Kopitar’s line. As the Kings prepare to take on the Seattle Kraken, predictions suggest that Kopitar will have a favorable night given the opposing team’s recent struggles defensively.

Impact of Artemi Panarin

In their match against the Kraken, analysts anticipate an impactful performance from Kopitar, evidenced by the fact that he is now averaging over 0.5 points in games since Panarin joined the team, a significant increase from his previous point-per-game rate. Centering the top line with Panarin and Adrian Kempe, Kopitar has been a part of a trio that propelled the Kings to an impressive 3.96 goals scored per 60 minutes in five-on-five scenarios, a remarkable offensive output. Additionally, he participates on the team’s primary power play unit, positioning him for more opportunities to register points.

Betting Insights

For the Kings vs. Kraken matchup, betting experts have noted that twelve of the last thirteen games for Seattle have seen them allow three or more goals, making it likely that Kopitar will capitalize on the situation.

Trevor Moore’s Performance

Another player to keep an eye on is Trevor Moore, who has also ramped up his shooting frequency in the absence of Kevin Fiala and Andrei Kuzmenko. Moore is averaging 3.3 shots per game with a 71% success rate of exceeding 2.5 shots over the last 21 games. Against a Kraken team that ranks poorly in shot defense, Moore is expected to continue his streak of multiple shots per game.

Game Odds and Details

Looking at the odds, the Kings hold a moneyline of -140 with the Kraken at +120, while the puck line offers the Kings at -1.5 (+170) and the Kraken at +1.5 (-210). The over/under line is set at 5.5, capturing the expectations for the game’s total scoring.

This matchup will take place at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, and puck drop is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET tonight, April 13, 2026. Fans can watch the matchup live on ESPN. The Kings, who are coming off a six-win stretch in their last eight games, present a tough challenge for a Kraken squad that has consistently found it hard to find the back of the net, ranking 27th in goals per game. Keep an eye on this intriguing game as it unfolds!