Prediction: Calgary Flames VS Los Angeles Kings 2026-02-28
LA Kings vs. Calgary Flames: A Tale of Pride, Porous Defenses, and Puck Luck
The Los Angeles Kings, currently riding a five-game losing streak (their longest of the season), are about to face the Calgary Flames in what promises to be a game as thrilling as watching a penguin try to play chess. The Kings, fresh off an 8-1 drubbing by Edmonton where they were outshot 14-3 in the third period, are being asked to show “pride” rather than chase wins. Meanwhile, the Flames, on a two-game roll and led by Nazem Kadri’s relentless scoring touch, are looking to capitalize on LA’s apparent lack of ambition. Let’s break this down with the precision of a Zamboni on a tight schedule.
Parsing the Odds: A Math Class You Didn’t Ask For
The Kings are favored at -155 on the moneyline, implying a 60.6% chance to win (per the formula: 155 / (155 + 100) = 60.6%). The Flames, at +135, suggest a 43.4% implied probability. But here’s the rub: LA’s “pride” has yet to translate into results. They’ve scored just 17 goals in their last eight games—roughly the output of a team that’s accidentally substituted all their wingers with figure skaters. The Flames, meanwhile, are a well-oiled defensive machine, tied for sixth in penalty kill percentage and allowing fewer slot shots than a vault door.
The total goals line sits at 5.5, with the Under favored. This makes sense: The Kings have allowed 3.4 goals per game over their losing streak, while the Flames have held opponents to 2.8. It’s the NHL version of two accountants arguing over tax codes—low-scoring and slightly less entertaining than a nap.
Injuries: The Kings’ Who’s Who of the Injured Reserve
LA’s injury report reads like a list of suspects from a mystery novel: Drew Doughty (lower-body), Joel Armia (upper-body), and Andrei Kuzmenko (undisclosed). It’s as if the Kings’ medical staff ran out of creative ways to phrase “we’re screwed.” Even their goaltending is a Russian roulette: Anton Forsberg vs. Darcy Kuemper, with neither having proven they’re the guy who’ll stop pucks tonight.
The Flames, conversely, are relatively healthy, with Kadri riding a three-game point streak (29 assists, 41 points). He’s the team’s offensive engine, a human highlight reel who’d probably score on a stationary puck if given the chance.
The Ducks Factor: A Distraction Too Far?
While the Kings’ focus is on “pride,” the Flames have a more tangible goal: avoiding a back-to-back loss. But let’s not overlook the Anaheim Ducks, who just beat Winnipeg in overtime. Their coach, Joel Quenneville, praised his team’s “resilience,” which is code for “we’re not giving up even if we look like a group of confused penguins.” The Ducks’ upcoming game against Calgary might sap some energy from the Flames, but let’s be real—Calgary’s coaching staff probably treats every game like it’s the Stanley Cup Final.
The Verdict: Why the Flames Should Win
The Kings’ “pride” narrative is as effective as a screen door in a hurricane. Their defense allows 3.4 goals per game and ranks 27th in slot shots allowed—ideal real estate for Yegor Sharangovich, who’s averaging 2.7 shots per game and thriving in high-danger areas. The Flames’ ability to stifle such chances, combined with Kadri’s scoring touch, gives them a clear edge.
Prediction: Calgary Flames (+135) to win and cover the 1.5-goal spread. The Kings’ “pride” will be buried under a avalanche of Flames shots, and the Under 5.5 total is a safe bet. Unless LA’s goaltender suddenly develops the reflexes of a caffeinated spider, this one’s a rout.
Final Thought: The Kings need to stop tripping over their own shoelaces (metaphorically—let’s hope Doughty’s lower-body injury wasn’t caused by actual shoelaces). For now, bet on the Flames to light the Kings’ pride on fire.
Created: Feb. 28, 2026, 6:55 p.m. GMT