Kings Secure Thrilling Victory Over Rangers in Exciting Match!
Mar 16, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Los Angeles Kings left wing Artemi Panarin (10) skates against New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin (31) and left wing J. T. Miller (8) during the first period at Madison Square Garden.
NEW YORK – The Los Angeles Kings needed this game against the Rangers to complete a five-game road trip on a high note as their playoff push continues. They also wanted to win this contest for their new teammate - Artemi Panarin - who returned to the Garden for the first time since he was traded to the Kings on Feb. 4.
Mission accomplished with a sturdy 4-1 victory to finish their travels 3-1-1 with seven out of a possible 10 points. “At the end of the trip, it was key to get everyone involved and get efforts from everyone,’’ Kings coach D. J.
Smith said. “Tonight we got it. ” The Kings came out with purpose and focus, taking a 1-0 first period lead on a goal by defenseman Drew Doughty assisted by defenseman Mikey Anderson and Panarin.
It was Doughty’s first career goal against the Rangers in 27 regular season games. Anderson then made it 2-0 at 4:31 of the middle period and Alex Laferriere scored just 28 seconds later to make it a three-goal margin. Vincent Trocheck spoiled Darcy Kuemper’s shutout bid at 2:29 of the third period but that was as close as the home team would get.