Laferriere’s First NHL Hat Trick Leads Kings to Victory Over Ducks

The Los Angeles Kings triumphed over the Anaheim Ducks in a decisive match, highlighted by Samuel Laferriere’s first NHL hat trick. This performance was crucial for the Kings, who improved their record to 16 wins, 12 losses, and 9 overtime losses.

Laferriere’s Historic Performance

Samuel Laferriere shone brightly during the game, scoring three goals and guiding his team to a 6-1 victory. The hat trick marked a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his scoring ability and contribution to the team’s overall success.

Early Dominance by the Kings

The Kings established dominance early in the match, scoring four unanswered goals in the first period:

• Drew Doughty: Opened the scoring at 3:03 with a backhand shot from the crease.
• Trevor Moore: Extended the lead to 2-0 at 3:56 following a series of deflections off a centering pass.
• Samuel Laferriere: Scored his first goal at 10:21, firing from the slot after an assist by Adrian Kempe.
• Quinton Byfield: Scored on a power play to make it 4-0 at 19:02, redirecting a shot from Brandt Clarke.

This aggressive start was critical, particularly after the Kings had struggled offensively in their last seven games. The team had averaged only two goals or fewer during this stretch.

Ducks’ Struggles

The Ducks, now with a record of 21 wins, 15 losses, and 2 overtime losses, faced challenges throughout the game. Mason McTavish provided a moment of hope with a power-play goal in the second period, reducing the Kings’ lead to 4-1.

Final Stages of the Game

Laferriere continued to impact the scoreline, netting his second goal early in the third period, making it 5-1. His final goal, a powerful one-timer at 13:15, capped the game at 6-1. The Ducks’ goalie, Lukas Dostal, made 24 saves but could not prevent the onslaught from the Kings.

Key Statistics

The Kings displayed a robust performance with significant contributions from their players:

• Anze Kopitar recorded three assists.
• Quinton Byfield had a goal and an assist, marking his return to scoring form.
• Drew Doughty and Trevor Moore each added to the tally with individual goals.
• Goalie Anton Forsberg made 24 saves, securing the win for the Kings.

This match was a necessary boost for the Kings, reinforcing their competitive spirit as they continue their season. Laferriere’s hat trick not only fulfilled a personal achievement but also uplifted the team’s morale, paving the way for future successes.