The Hockey News published a game preview on Sept. 30, 2026, saying the Los Angeles Kings were set to begin their 2026-27 NHL season that night against the Colorado Avalanche. This report reflects that preview and does not cover the result.
The matchup carries some history. According to The Hockey News, Colorado is the team that eliminated the Kings from the playoffs last season.
The preview also noted that the game would be the first regular-season contest with Peter Laviolette as head coach. The Hockey News expected the Kings to play better on offense and to run a new scheme under him.
On the lineup front, the preview said the Kings scratched Corey Perry and Erik Gustafsson. It listed Darcy Kuemper as the projected starting goaltender for Los Angeles and Mackenzie Blackwood for the Avalanche. Colorado was also listed without Logan O'Connor and Zachary L'Heureux, both with lower-body injuries.
The Hockey News pointed to Colorado's numbers from last season: 3.63 goals per game, and the fewest goals allowed in the NHL at 2.40 per game. It said the Kings' defense ranked 7th in the league last season, while their offense needed a big spark.