Los Angeles Kings vs Utah Hockey Club Prediction – 4/3/2025

The Los Angeles Kings are set to face off against the Utah Hockey Club on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 9:00 PM Eastern Time at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. This matchup features two teams with contrasting trajectories as the regular season nears its conclusion.

Los Angeles Kings vs Utah Hockey Club Game Preview

The Kings enter this contest with a strong record of 42-23-9, positioning them second in the Pacific Division. They are riding a two-game winning streak, including a decisive 4-1 victory over the Winnipeg Jets in their most recent outing. In that game, forward Adrian Kempe contributed a goal, and goaltender Darcy Kuemper showcased his skills by stopping 18 of 19 shots, resulting in a .947 save percentage. Over their last ten games, the Kings have secured seven wins, averaging 3.5 goals per game while allowing just 1.8 goals against. Their power play efficiency stands at 17.1%, and they have successfully killed 82.9% of penalties during this span.

On the other hand, the Utah Hockey Club holds a 34-29-12 record and is striving to climb into playoff contention. They have also won their last two games, most recently defeating the Calgary Flames 3-1. Forwards Clayton Keller, Barrett Hayton, and Kevin Stenlund each found the back of the net, while goaltender Karel Vejmelka delivered an impressive performance with 33 saves and a .971 save percentage. Over their last ten games, Utah has recorded five wins, averaging 2.7 goals per game and conceding 3.6 goals against. Their power play has struggled, converting at just 2.9%, but their penalty kill has been effective at 88.1% during this period.

Betting Insights

Oddsmakers have set the Kings as the favorites for this matchup. The moneyline odds are approximately -130 for Los Angeles and +110 for Utah. The over/under for total goals is set at 5.5. Notably, the Kings have won seven of their last ten games, while Utah has lost three of their last five. In their previous encounter on February 23, 2025, the Kings emerged victorious with a 5-3 scoreline.

Key player statistics to consider include:

• Adrian Kempe (Kings): Over the last ten games, he has accumulated nine points, comprising five goals and four assists.
• Anze Kopitar (Kings): Also with nine points in the last ten games, including three goals and six assists.
• Logan Cooley (Utah): Leading Utah with nine points in the last ten games, tallying five goals and four assists.
• Nick Schmaltz (Utah): Contributing eight points over the same period, with two goals and six assists.

In terms of goaltending, Darcy Kuemper has been solid for the Kings, boasting a 1.29 goals-against average and a .937 save percentage in his last ten games, including one shutout. Karel Vejmelka has a 2.93 goals-against average and a .887 save percentage over the same span.

Los Angeles Kings vs Utah Hockey Club Prediction

Considering the current form and statistical analysis, the Los Angeles Kings appear to have the upper hand in this matchup. Their recent offensive surge, combined with a robust defensive performance, positions them favorably against a Utah team that has struggled both offensively and defensively in recent games. The Kings' ability to limit opponents' scoring opportunities, coupled with their efficient penalty kill, could prove decisive.

Given these factors, the recommendation is to back the Kings on the moneyline. Additionally, considering both teams' recent trends, wagering on the under 5.5 total goals could be a prudent choice, anticipating a low-scoring affair dominated by defensive play.

As always, it's essential to monitor any last-minute lineup changes or injuries that could impact the game's dynamics. Betting should be approached responsibly, with consideration of all available information.

For more on today's game check out the comprehensive statistics, betting odds, and trends below. Be sure to check out all our free NHL picks here.