Avalanche, Kings Set for Pacific Division Clash in Los Angeles LOS ANGELES (Interstat) — The surging Colorado Avalanche will look to continue their push atop the Western Conference standings when they visit the struggling Los Angeles Kings on Monday night at Crypto.com Arena. The Avalanche (39-19) enter on a strong run, having won three of their last four games, including a 3-1 victory over Chicago on Saturday. Defenseman Cale Makar, a key player to watch, scored two goals in that win and has recorded three points (2 goals, 1 assist) in his last three contests. Colorado’s offense, fueled by Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas, who each had two assists against Chicago, has averaged 3.4 goals per game over its last 10 outings. Los Angeles (24-35), meanwhile, is coming off a 2-0 shutout of Calgary on Saturday, a rare bright spot in a difficult season. Forward Alex Laferriere, who scored in that victory and fired seven shots on goal, will be a focal point for the Kings’ attack. Despite the recent win, the Kings have lost seven of their last 10 games and rank near the bottom of the league standings. The season series has been dominated by Colorado, which has outscored Los Angeles 9-3 in two meetings. The Avalanche won 5-2 in Denver on Dec. 29 and 4-1 in Los Angeles on Oct. 7. According to National Statistical’s game simulator, the Kings are projected to earn a narrow 3-2 victory, suggesting a potential for an upset despite the stark contrast in the teams’ records. Monday’s contest opens a three-game California road trip for the Avalanche, who face Anaheim on Tuesday. The Kings begin a brief two-game homestand before embarking on a lengthy six-game East Coast trip later in the week. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. PST.