<p>The <strong>Edmonton Oilers</strong> secured their spot in the postseason with a commanding 4-2 victory over the San Jose Sharks a few days ago, marking their sixth consecutive playoff appearance. However, despite the good news, star <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-mcdavid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Connor McDavid</a></strong> will be without an important teammate for the crucial moments of the 2024-25 <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHL</a></strong> season, when the team faces the <strong>Los Angeles Kings</strong>.</p>



<p>In the first round, McDavid and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oilers</a> will play against the LA team for the fourth consecutive year. It will be a tough challenge, as this time the Kings will have home-ice advantage <strong>after finishing ahead of Edmonton in the divisional standings.</strong></p>



<p>In the hours leading up to a new playoff run, defenseman Mattias Ekholm will miss the first round of the Stanley Cup postseason against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-kings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kings</a> due to an undisclosed injury. <strong>The 34-year-old veteran had recently returned after missing seven games for the Oilers between late March and early April.</strong></p>



<h2>When will Ekholm play for the Oilers again?</h2>



<p>Ekholm’s return to the ice didn’t go as expected, as the Oilers defenseman played only three shifts before leaving the game against the San Jose Sharks. Edmonton head coach Kris Knoblauch didn’t provide a specific timeline but confirmed <strong>that the 34-year-old player will be out “for a while” </strong>and won’t be available for the first round of the playoffs.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/15115542/Mattias-Ekholm-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-377058" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Mattias Ekholm of the Oilers</figcaption></figure>



<p>During the regular season, <strong>Ekholm recorded 33 points (nine goals, 24 assists) in 65 games</strong>. His absence will be tough to replace for an Oilers team looking to tighten up defensively in order to maximize McDavid’s impact on the offensive end.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/nhl-news-hc-kris-knoblauch-gets-real-on-connor-mcdavids-four-assist-hight-and-oilers-playoff-berth" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250412_BUS_375082_Connor-McDavid-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch reflects on Connor McDavid’s dominant return and the team’s mindset after clinching a Stanley Cup Playoff spot with a win over the San Jose Sharks.
" title="NHL News: HC Kris Knoblauch gets real on Connor McDavid’s four-assist hight and Oilers’ playoff berth" publication_id="BUS#/nhl/nhl-news-hc-kris-knoblauch-gets-real-on-connor-mcdavids-four-assist-hight-and-oilers-playoff-berth"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/oilers-hc-kris-knoblauch-delivers-discouraging-update-on-connor-mcdavids-star-teammate-ahead-of-playoff-matchup-vs-kings" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250413_BUS_375889_Connor-McDavid-97-of-the-Edmonton-Oilers-plays-against-the-Florida-Panthers-in-Game-Six-of-the-2024.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Ahead of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, where the Edmonton Oilers will take on the Los Angeles Kings, head coach Kris Knoblauch voiced a concerning injury update on one of Connor McDavid&apos;s star teammates.
" title="Oilers HC Kris Knoblauch delivers discouraging update on Connor McDavid’s star teammate ahead of playoff matchup vs Kings" publication_id="BUS#/nhl/oilers-hc-kris-knoblauch-delivers-discouraging-update-on-connor-mcdavids-star-teammate-ahead-of-playoff-matchup-vs-kings"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/kings-warren-foegele-sends-strong-warning-to-connor-mcdavid-former-oilers-teammates-ahead-of-stanley-cup-playoffs" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250414_BUS_376300_Warren-Foegele-37-of-the-Los-Angeles-Kings-in-the-third-period-at-Crypto.com-Arena-on-April-07-202.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Ahead of a new first round meeting between the Los Angeles Kings and Edmonton Oilers, forward Warren Foegele issued a bold statement for Connor McDavid and the rest of the squad in his former NHL team.
" title="Kings’ Warren Foegele sends strong warning to Connor McDavid, former Oilers teammates ahead of Stanley Cup Playoffs" publication_id="BUS#/nhl/kings-warren-foegele-sends-strong-warning-to-connor-mcdavid-former-oilers-teammates-ahead-of-stanley-cup-playoffs"></div>


<h2>Recent NHL playoffs meetings between Kings and Oilers</h2>



<p>Over the past three seasons, the Oilers and Kings have faced off consecutively in the first round of the NHL playoffs, <strong>with Edmonton coming out on top each time</strong>. In 2022, they won the series 4-3, followed by a 4-2 victory in 2023, and a 4-1 triumph last year.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67fe80880c8fd1e7fdf26ff5" data-title="Who will win the NHL playoff game between the Oilers and Kings?" data-options="2"></div>

NHL News: Connor McDavid's Oilers lose standout veteran player for the playoffs vs Kings

Kings’ Warren Foegele sends strong warning to Connor McDavid, former Oilers teammates ahead of Stanley Cup Playoffs

NHL News: HC Kris Knoblauch gets real on Connor McDavid’s four-assist hight and Oilers’ playoff berth

NHL News: Connor McDavid's Oilers lose standout veteran player for the playoffs vs Kings - Bolavip US

Connor McDavid's Oilers lose standout veteran player for the playoffs vs Kings

thumbnail

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-kings">Los Angeles Kings</a></strong> and <strong>Edmonton Oilers</strong> will face each other for the fourth consecutive time in the first round of the <strong>NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs</strong>. Though the two franchises may feel trapped in a Groundhog Day scenario, Kings forward <strong>Warren Foegele</strong> will experience something different as he goes head-to-head with <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-mcdavid">Connor McDavid</a></strong> and his former teammates in Alberta.</p>



<p><strong>The Kings have been eliminated by the Oilers</strong> in each of the last three <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> seasons, as the Edmonton franchise rides a three-year streak of winning at least one playoff series.</p>



<p>The Kings have had enough, and will vie to finally give the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Oilers</a> a taste of their own medicine. <strong>Perhaps Foegele’s addition is the difference</strong> when Los Angeles and Edmonton clash for the fourth time in a row. </p>



<p>Ahead of the series puck drop on April 20, former Oilers forward Foegele delivered a clear statement to McDavid and the rest of the team, warning them about their upcoming best-of-seven clash in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stanley-cup">Stanley Cup</a> Playoffs.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21112920/Connor-Mcdavid-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Connor Mcdavid" class="wp-image-360429" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers skates against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on March 16, 2025 in New York City. </figcaption></figure>



<p><em>“The friendships will always last forever, but a bunch of those guys know that <strong>once the playoffs start, we won’t be friends</strong>, and then we’ll go back to being friends once the series is over,” </em>Kings forward Warren Foegele admitted, via<em> NHL.com. </em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/oilers-hc-kris-knoblauch-delivers-discouraging-update-on-connor-mcdavids-star-teammate-ahead-of-playoff-matchup-vs-kings" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250413_BUS_375889_Connor-McDavid-97-of-the-Edmonton-Oilers-plays-against-the-Florida-Panthers-in-Game-Six-of-the-2024.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Ahead of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, where the Edmonton Oilers will take on the Los Angeles Kings, head coach Kris Knoblauch voiced a concerning injury update on one of Connor McDavid&apos;s star teammates.
" title="Oilers HC Kris Knoblauch delivers discouraging update on Connor McDavid’s star teammate ahead of playoff matchup vs Kings" publication_id="BUS#/nhl/oilers-hc-kris-knoblauch-delivers-discouraging-update-on-connor-mcdavids-star-teammate-ahead-of-playoff-matchup-vs-kings"></div>


<h2>If you can beat them, join them</h2>



<p>In a strange turn of events, Foegele joined the Kings on a three-year contract on July 2024. Foegele had helped Edmonton move past Los Angeles <strong>during his three years in the northenmost NHL city</strong>. This time around, he will battle for a different outcome when the Kings and Oilers take to the ice.</p>



<p><em>“It’s unique because a year ago, <strong>you went to battle with those guys and made it to the Stanley Cup Final</strong>,” </em>Foegele added<em>. “They were a bunch of great guys, and we fell short in the last game of the season. Those guys know me well and they know that I’m super competitive.</em>“</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/14125224/Warren-Foegele-37-of-the-Edmonton-Oilers-celebrates-after-his-goal-during-the-first-period-of-Game-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-376333" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Warren Foegele #37 of the Edmonton Oilers celebrates after his goal during the first period of Game Six of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers at Rogers Place on June 21, 2024 in Edmonton, Alberta.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Taking what he learned in Edmonton</h2>



<p>Foegele praised Leon Draisaitl as being a key instructor, helping him polish his game as he had registered a career-high 41 point season during his last campaign with the Oilers.</p>



<p>However, Foegele has one-upped himself as he has already set a new career best with the Kings, recording 43 points with two games left to play.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/nhl-news-hc-kris-knoblauch-gets-real-on-connor-mcdavids-four-assist-hight-and-oilers-playoff-berth" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250412_BUS_375082_Connor-McDavid-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch reflects on Connor McDavid’s dominant return and the team’s mindset after clinching a Stanley Cup Playoff spot with a win over the San Jose Sharks.
" title="NHL News: HC Kris Knoblauch gets real on Connor McDavid’s four-assist hight and Oilers’ playoff berth" publication_id="BUS#/nhl/nhl-news-hc-kris-knoblauch-gets-real-on-connor-mcdavids-four-assist-hight-and-oilers-playoff-berth"></div>


<p><em>“I learned a lot playing in Edmonton and<strong> I learned a lot playing with Leon [Draisaitl]</strong>,” </em>Foegele said<em>. “He’s a heck of a player. He can be hard on his linemates sometimes, but I think in the long run it’s beneficial. He really taught me a lot of things.</em></p>



<p>“<em>I think one of the things I do remember him saying is that you can’t just do it every couple of games, you have to try and do it every night. <strong>That’s probably one of the hardest things to do in this league</strong> is to be consistent.</em>“</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67fd3da40c8fd1e7fdf26fa6" data-title="Who will be the best player in the Kings-Oilers playoff series?" data-options="5"></div>


<p>Foegele has failed to register a point in his last five outings, but he remains calm and hopeful that he’ll eventually break through—either during the final stretch, <strong>or even better, in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.</strong></p>


Kings' Warren Foegele sends strong warning to Connor McDavid, former Oilers teammates ahead of Stanley Cup Playoffs

Kings' Warren Foegele sends strong warning to Connor McDavid, former Oilers teammates ahead of Stanley Cup Playoffs - Bolavip US

Warren Foegele sends strong warning to Connor McDavid, former Oilers teammates

<p>The <strong>Edmonton Oilers</strong> clinched their ticket to the <strong>Stanley Cup Playoffs</strong>, where they’ll face a familiar foe: the <strong>Los Angeles Kings</strong>. Ahead of the fourth consecutive first-round meeting between the two franchises, head coach <strong>Kris Knoblauch</strong> issued a strong update on one of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/connor-mcdavid"><strong>Connor McDavid</strong></a><strong>‘s</strong> teammates, who recently sustained a serious injury.</p>



<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/edmonton-oilers">Oilers</a> defenseman Mattias Ekholm had just returned from a seven-game injury absence when he aggravated an existing issue during the Oilers’ 4-2 victory over the Sharks on April 11.</p>



<p>Edmonton has been mired with injuries all season long, with McDavid and Draisaitl missing considerable time with different health concerns throughout the 2024-25 <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a></strong> campaign. However, as the Stanley Cup Playoffs loom closer, <strong>these concerns have multiplied as several stars are inactive.</strong></p>



<p>Knoblauch and the Oilers hoped to retrieve a key player in Ekholm, <strong>to aid their defensive front </strong>ahead of their first-round tilt against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-kings">Kings</a>. However, the head coach had a concerning update for McDavid and the team about the 34-year-old defenseman.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13154316/Mattias-Ekholm-14-of-the-Edmonton-Oilers-looks-on-against-the-Washington-Capitals-during-the-first-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-375929" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Mattias Ekholm #14 of the Edmonton Oilers looks on against the Washington Capitals during the first period at Capital One Arena on February 23, 2025 in Washington, DC.</figcaption></figure>



<p><em>“Mattias [Ekholm] is getting a look from the doctor a second opinion to see what it looks like. Right now <strong>it doesn’t look like Mattias will be joining us immediately</strong>,”</em> Knoblauch said, according to <em>Sportsnet</em>.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/connor-mcdavid-net-worth" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20241129_BUS_282801_Connor-McDavid-2-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Connor McDavid, the captain of the Edmonton Oilers, shines not only on the ice but also in his bank account. With a multi-million dollar net worth, he&apos;s ranked among the wealthiest athletes in the NHL. Check out his fortune and more.
" title="Connor McDavid&apos;s net worth: How much money does the Edmonton Oilers captain have?" publication_id="BUS#/nhl/connor-mcdavid-net-worth"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/oilers-connor-mcdavid-breaks-silence-after-heroic-return-sparks-vital-win-over-blues" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250410_BUS_373637_Connor-McDavid.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="After missing eight NHL games, Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid made a triumphant return in a win over the Blues and shared honest thoughts about his recovery and performance.
" title="Oilers’ Connor McDavid breaks silence after heroic return sparks vital win over Blues" publication_id="BUS#/nhl/oilers-connor-mcdavid-breaks-silence-after-heroic-return-sparks-vital-win-over-blues"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/nhl-news-hc-kris-knoblauch-gets-real-on-connor-mcdavids-four-assist-hight-and-oilers-playoff-berth" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250412_BUS_375082_Connor-McDavid-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch reflects on Connor McDavid’s dominant return and the team’s mindset after clinching a Stanley Cup Playoff spot with a win over the San Jose Sharks.
" title="NHL News: HC Kris Knoblauch gets real on Connor McDavid’s four-assist hight and Oilers’ playoff berth" publication_id="BUS#/nhl/nhl-news-hc-kris-knoblauch-gets-real-on-connor-mcdavids-four-assist-hight-and-oilers-playoff-berth"></div>


<h2>Key absences</h2>



<p>Some big names appear on the Oilers’ injury report heading into the final week of the regular season. <strong>Leon Draisaitl is the most notable</strong>, as the German star is questionable for April 21, when the first-round series against the Kings begins.</p>



<p>Other critical absences include: <strong>Zach Hyman, Trent Frederic</strong> (who’s only played one game since being traded from Boston to Edmonton), <strong>Jake Walman</strong>, and <strong>Evander Kane</strong>.</p>



<h2>They meet again</h2>



<p>The Oilers and Kings will face each other for the fourth time in as many seasons. Edmonton has had the upper hand over Los Angeles, <strong>eliminating them in each of their previous series. </strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67fc14080c8fd1e7fdf26f6c" data-title="Who will advance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs?" data-options="2"></div>


<p>However, this time around, <strong>it appears the Kings will have home-ice advantage</strong>—something that hadn’t occurred in any of their past meetings. If the Oilers can’t recover their star players in time, they could be in for a lot of trouble.</p>


Oilers HC Kris Knoblauch delivers discouraging update on Connor McDavid's star teammate ahead of playoff matchup vs Kings

Connor McDavid's net worth: How much money does the Edmonton Oilers captain have?

Oilers’ Connor McDavid breaks silence after heroic return sparks vital win over Blues

Oilers HC Kris Knoblauch delivers discouraging update on Connor McDavid's star teammate ahead of playoff matchup vs Kings - Bolavip US

Knoblauch issues major update on McDavid's Oilers teammate ahead of playoffs

<p>The <strong>New York Rangers</strong> let a huge opportunity slip through their fingers in the 2024-25 <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a></strong> season. The Broadway Blueshirts had to defeat the <strong>Los Angeles Kings</strong> and they’d take sole possession of the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. It seemed easy enough, but fans in NYC have learned if it’s too easy, then it’s too good to be true for this year’s Rangers. Following the 3-1 defeat at Crypto.com Arena, star <strong>Mika Zibanejad</strong> issued a frustrating six-word message to <strong>Peter Laviolette</strong> and his teammates.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-rangers">Rangers</a> remain on the playoff bubble but continue to squander critical opportunities to secure a postseason berth. After the Montreal Canadiens lost to the St. Louis Blues, <strong>the door was wide open for Zibanejad and New York to overtake the Habs in the standings</strong>—yet they failed to capitalize.</p>



<p><strong>The Rangers are 3-6-1 over their last ten games, underlining what’s been a concerning tune all season long</strong>. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/peter-laviolette">Laviolette</a>‘s seat continues to heat up as the Blueshirts steer further away from the playoffs, and frustration mounts in the locker room.</p>



<p>After the Rangers gave up their 1-0 lead over the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-kings">Kings</a>, Zibanejad delivered a harsh six-word statement about the team’s performance, <strong>issuing a wake-up call for the head coach.</strong></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/24125108/Peter-Laviolette-of-the-New-York-Rangers-looks-on-in-the-second-period-during-the-game-against-the-P-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Peter Laviolette of the New York Rangers looks on in the second period during the game against the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG PAINTS Arena on February 23, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania." class="wp-image-343232" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Peter Laviolette of the New York Rangers looks on in the second period during the game against the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG PAINTS Arena on February 23, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. </figcaption></figure>



<p><em>“<strong>We find a way to lose</strong>,” </em>Rangers star Mika Zibanejad stated, via<em> NHL.com. “It gets tiring because I feel like over the last few weeks we’ve been playing some good hockey and still losing.</em> <em><strong>It’s hard to look at the positives</strong>.”</em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/peter-laviolette-net-worth" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20241221_BUS_297198_Peter-Laviolette-3-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Peter Laviolette, the mastermind behind the Rangers&apos; success, shines not only in hockey but also in his investments. From million-dollar contracts to real estate, his fortune is fascinating. Here’s everything about his net worth.
" title="Peter Laviolette&apos;s net worth: How much fortune does the New York Rangers coach have?" publication_id="BUS#/nhl/peter-laviolette-net-worth"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/nhl-news-jt-miller-sets-record-straight-on-feud-with-elias-petterson-trade-from-vancouver-to-new-york" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250323_BUS_361758_J.T.-Miller-9-of-the-Vancouver-Canucks-looks-on-prior-to-the-game-against-the-Nashville-Predators-a.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="New York Rangers star J.T. Miller issued a bold admission about his time with the Vancouver Canucks and the league-wide buzz around his rift with Elias Pettersson.
" title="NHL News: JT Miller sets record straight on feud with Elias Petterson, trade from Vancouver to New York" publication_id="BUS#/nhl/nhl-news-jt-miller-sets-record-straight-on-feud-with-elias-petterson-trade-from-vancouver-to-new-york"></div>


<h2>Shesterkin’s heroics: not enough</h2>



<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/igor-shesterkin-net-worth">The highest-paid goaltender in the NHL, <strong>Igor Shesterkin</strong>,</a> played lights-out during the Rangers’ visit to the Kings. However, <strong>the team didn’t do him any favors</strong>, as failures to clear the zone and block shots left the goalie out to dry.</p>



<p>After the game, leader Vincent Trocheck issued a vocal statement about Shesterkin’s performance.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/20161546/Igor-Shesterkin-3-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Igor Shesterkin in 2024" class="wp-image-297152" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Igor Shesterkin #31 of the New York Rangers looks on during the second period against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on February 22, 2024. </figcaption></figure>



<p><em>“<strong>He was spectacular, kept us in the game,”</strong> </em>Vincent Trocheck stated about Shesterkin, per<em> NYRangersInsider. “It almost goes unappreciated since you almost expect every night out of him, but he’s obviously a world-class goalie and shows it night in and night out.”</em></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67e43a74e70a37cf62148450" data-title="Which NHL team will clinch the second wild card berth in the Eastern Conference?" data-options="5"></div>


<h2>Get well matchup</h2>



<p>The Rangers will continue their road trip with a <strong>crucial matchup against the Anaheim Ducks</strong> at Honda Center. New York cannot afford any more slip-ups, as every game has essentially become a do-or-die, Game 7-type clash.</p>


NHL News: Rangers star Mika Zibanejad delivers deflating six-word statement to Peter Laviolette after loss vs Kings

Peter Laviolette's net worth: How much fortune does the New York Rangers coach have?

NHL News: Rangers star Mika Zibanejad delivers deflating six-word statement to Peter Laviolette after loss vs Kings - Bolavip US

Zibanejad voices frustrating six-word comment for Laviolette, Rangers after loss vs Kings

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins">Boston Bruins</a></strong> fell in devastating fashion to the <strong>Los Angeles Kings</strong>, suffering a loss that could put their Stanley Cup Playoffs’ aspirations on the backburner. Still, goalie <strong>Jeremy Swayman</strong> didn’t just stand by with his arms crossed. When push came to shove, the American netminder skated to center ice, ready to drop the gloves with opposing goalie <strong>Darcy Kuemper</strong>. However, the referees stepped in, much to the disappointment of fans both in the arena and around the <strong>NHL</strong>.</p>



<p>Swayman’s performance was abysmal against the Kings, and it’s been yet another example of his concerning form during the 2024-25 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> season. With each disastrous showing, <strong>more fingers point at the organization’s decision to keep Swayman while trading away Linus Ullmark</strong> during the offseason.</p>



<p>During the 7-2 loss to Los Angeles, <strong>Swayman surrendered seven goals on 23 shots, finishing with a rough .696 save percentage</strong>. However, the blame for the defeat can’t fall solely on him, as the Bruins managed just 13 shots on Kuemper all game. Perhaps if the officials had let the two goalies drop the gloves, Swayman could’ve given Kuemper something else to worry about.</p>



<p>With less than six minutes left in the second period, the Bruins trailed 3-2 when a scrum broke out in front of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-kings">Kings</a>‘ crease. <strong>Marat Khusnutdinov</strong> collided with Darcy Kuemper, prompting the goaltender to retaliate. <strong>Jeremy Swayman wasn’t about to let the hit on his teammate slide. </strong></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/24131947/Darcy-Kuemper-35-of-the-Los-Angeles-Kings-tends-the-net-against-the-Chicago-Blackhawks-during-the-f-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-362606" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Darcy Kuemper #35 of the Los Angeles Kings tends the net against the Chicago Blackhawks during the first period at the United Center on March 20, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.</figcaption></figure>



<p><strong>However, to the fans’ dismay, NHL officials stepped in before either goalie could throw a punch</strong>, Swayman made his stance clear after the game, sending a firm warning to Kuemper—and to anyone who dares mess with a Bruins player.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/nhl-news-joe-sacco-voices-honest-statement-after-bruins-costly-loss-to-sharks" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250323_BUS_361830_Joe-Sacco-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Boston Bruins were defeated in a must-win game against the San Jose Sharks, which could have severe consequences for Joe Sacco&apos;s team amid their push for a playoff spot in the 2024-25 NHL season.
" title="NHL News: Joe Sacco voices honest statement after Bruins’ costly loss to Sharks" publication_id="BUS#/nhl/nhl-news-joe-sacco-voices-honest-statement-after-bruins-costly-loss-to-sharks"></div>


<p><em>“<strong>He touched one of my guys. It’s something that I’m not gonna accept</strong>,” </em>Swayman stated postgame, via<em> NESN. “I think it just comes down to sticking up for my teammates. <strong>I don’t care who it is</strong>. It’s a guy in Black and Gold. <strong>You’re not gonna touch him without getting contested</strong> and I care about every one of these guys like a brother. That’s just the way I felt and I felt like it was my turn to step up.”</em></p>



<h2>Rough stretch</h2>



<p><strong>The Bruins are mired in a heartcrushing losing slump, dragging a six-game winless drought</strong>, with only one point during the soul-stomping stretch. Swayman’s numbers have been exasperating over his latest outings, underlining one focal issue of concern on the team.</p>



<p>During his last four starts, <strong>Swayman has a 0-4-0 record, with an awful .815 SV% average.</strong> Perhaps the most concerning stat, is the fact that the Bruins’ starting goalie allowed an average of 6.00 goals against.  According to <em>Bruin Something </em>host Michael Sullivan, no other NHL goalie has worse numbers than Swayman during this span of games.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16133740/Jeremy-Swayman-1-of-the-Boston-Bruins-looks-on-against-the-New-York-Rangers-at-Madison-Square-Garde-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Jeremy Swayman #1 of the Boston Bruins looks on against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on January 02, 2025 in New York City." class="wp-image-356662" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Jeremy Swayman #1 of the Boston Bruins looks on against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on January 02, 2025 in New York City.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>No games and fun</h2>



<p>The crestfallen Bruins will vie to get back in the win column during their visit to the <strong>Anaheim Ducks on March 26</strong>. Though the team will have plenty of leisure time in California, it’s safe to say the locker room is not in the mood for rides, sudden drops, and castle visits. <strong>The Bruins’ season has been a rollercoaster of its own</strong>, and there’s nothing the players would love more than for the ride to reach its final stop, finally offering relief to their spinning heads.</p>


Bruins star Jeremy Swayman issues bold warning to Darcy Kuemper, rest of the league after near goalie fight vs Kings

Bruins star Jeremy Swayman issues bold warning to Darcy Kuemper, rest of the league after near goalie fight vs Kings - Bolavip US

Swayman warns Kuemper, rest of the league after near goalie fight during Bruins-Kings

Latest news from Los Angeles Kings. Find out about all the news related to Los Angeles Kings on bolavip.com/en

Los Angeles Kings - Page 5

Connor McDavid's Oilers lose standout veteran player for the playoffs vs Kings

Warren Foegele sends strong warning to Connor McDavid, former Oilers teammates

Knoblauch issues major update on McDavid's Oilers teammate ahead of playoffs

Zibanejad voices frustrating six-word comment for Laviolette, Rangers after loss vs Kings

Swayman warns Kuemper, rest of the league after near goalie fight during Bruins-Kings