Utah Jazz vs
Los Angeles KingsPredictions & Preview

Los Angeles Kings favored to win against Utah Hockey Club in Saturday matchup, despite key player absences

After the 4 Nations Face-Off, the NHL betting action resumes on Saturday, February 22, 2025, with a 14-game card, featuring the Hockey Club vs. Kings match. Utah and Los Angeles will continue their three-game regular-season series, with the Kings holding a slight edge after defeating the Hockey Club 3-2 earlier in the season. Los Angeles is the favorite to win with opening odds at -173, currently at -171. Stay updated with the latest team news, stats, and odds for this exciting matchup and be sure to check out all of our NHL picks for the upcoming Saturday slate.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Jazz +150 | Kings -171
• Spread: Jazz +1.5 (-180) | Kings -1.5 (+155)
• Total: Over/Under 5.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Los Angeles will win straight-up is 63%.

Utah vs Los Angeles Stats

Utah Jazz

The Utah Hockey Club has been performing well recently, winning three of their last four games. Despite a recent 5-4 shootout victory against the Washington Capitals, starting goalie Connor Ingram may be out due to an upper-body injury, with Karel Vejmelka also questionable due to illness. Jaxson Stauber has been recalled from AHL Tucson to potentially replace them in goal. The team is also missing key player Logan Cooley due to a lower-body injury. With a 24-23-9 record, the Hockey Club is currently ranked 24th in offense (2.78 goals scored per game) and 16th in defense (3.02 goals allowed per game) and are six points behind the final wild card spot in the West.

Los Angeles Kings Analysis

The Los Angeles Kings experienced a mixed month of January, finishing with a four-game losing streak but starting February with a three-game winning streak. Despite a recent shootout defeat to the Anaheim Ducks, the team is preparing for the upcoming 4 Nations Tournament break. Darcy Kuemper has missed the last two games for personal reasons, potentially leaving David Rittich to guard the cage against Utah. Rittich has a record of 12-11-1 this season, while Kuemper boasts a record of 16-6-6. Furthermore, defenseman Michael Anderson is unavailable due to injury. The Kings currently rank third in the Pacific Division, with their offense ranked 20th and their defense ranked 5th in the NHL. With a power ranking of 14, the Kings will face a challenging matchup against Utah, who has a recent winning streak against Los Angeles.

Kings Favored in Upcoming Matchup Despite Kuemper's Absence

I believe the Kings have the advantage in the upcoming matchup, regardless of Darcy Kuemper's absence. David Rittich has consistently performed well this season, and the Kings' defense is arguably stronger than that of the Hockey Club. Additionally, the absence of Logan Cooley for Utah and a potential loss of Karel Vejmelka would greatly impact their team. Both teams have been somewhat unpredictable recently, but the Kings have shown strength with three wins in their last four home games. Their impressive 17-3-2 record at Crypto.com Arena this season further demonstrates their ability to perform well on home ice.

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