Preview 12/15: Kuemper Anchors Team Amid Power Play Challenges; Danault/Byfield Out with Flu
The Los Angeles Kings face off against the Dallas Stars today, December 15, 2025, in an NHL regular-season match. This game marks the Kings’ second meeting with the Stars this season, following a 3-2 overtime victory for LA on October 23 in Dallas. Tonight’s game begins at 5:00 PM Pacific time at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.
Matchup Overview
The Kings, currently with a record of 14-8-9, are starting a three-game road trip. The Stars, leading the Central Division, stand at 21-7-5 and have experienced a dip in their performance after an impressive 11-game point streak. Dallas lost their last two games, including a 4-0 shutout against Florida.
Head-to-Head History
- October 23: Kings defeated Stars 3-2 in overtime.
- In the previous season, the Kings won two out of three matchups against the Stars.
Key Players and Absences
The Kings will attempt to compensate for the absences of forwards Quinton Byfield and Phillip Danault, both sidelined by the flu. Meanwhile, Adrian Kempe will work alongside Anze Kopitar and Andrei Kuzmenko on the top line. Kevin Fiala will center the second line with Trevor Moore and Alex Turcotte.
For the Stars, they will start Casey DeSmith in goal. DeSmith has a record of 7-1-3 this season, with a 0.920 save percentage. Dallas is also without Tyler Seguin, who is out long-term due to an ACL injury.
Player Performances
- Mikko Rantanen leads the Stars with 42 points this season, including 11 points in his last six games against LA.
- Jason Robertson and Wyatt Johnston also contribute significantly to Dallas’s offense, adding 40 and 37 points, respectively.
Kings’ Power Play Challenges
The Kings are evaluating their power play strategy, which has not shown consistency this season. Their current success rate stands at 13.7%, ranking them among the league’s lowest.
Captain Anze Kopitar emphasized the importance of simplifying their approach and generating more shots on goal. The organization is hopeful that the returns of key players will improve their overall performance.
Defensive Strength
Despite their struggles on offense, the Kings remain competitive thanks to strong goaltending by Darcy Kuemper. He currently holds a record of 10-6-6 this season, with a 0.916 save percentage and a goals-against average of 2.21. Kuemper has been crucial in keeping the games close, not allowing more than two goals in his last five starts.
What to Watch For
The Kings’ ability to perform on special teams will be a focal point in tonight’s matchup against the high-scoring Stars. The game provides an opportunity for younger players like Turcotte to step up in the absence of veterans and make an impact.
Fans can follow the game via the FanDuel Sports Network, ESPN LA 710, and through the LA Kings app or on Twitter @jaredshafran & @lakings.
