Kings’ Defensive Woes Return In Season-Opening Loss To Avalanche.

The Los Angeles Kings opened their 2026-27 season with an 8-4 defeat against the Colorado Avalanche in Denver. Despite generating four goals, the Kings struggled defensively as Colorado capitalized on scoring opportunities throughout the contest. Brian Dumoulin scored shorthanded, while Artemi Panarin, Trevor Moore, and Joel Armia also tallied goals for Los Angeles in the loss.

Special teams proved pivotal, with Colorado converting 4 of 5 power-play opportunities, including a goal from Nathan MacKinnon. Meanwhile, Los Angeles went 0 for 4 with the man advantage. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper started for the Kings, who continue their road trip against the San Jose Sharks on Saturday.