The Tampa Bay Lightning are reportedly interested in Buffalo Sabres forward JJ Peterka, indicating they may pursue him in the upcoming trades. However, the exact mechanics of how this potential trade would unfold remain uncertain, particularly regarding which veterans might be sent back to the Sabres. Additionally, it's confirmed that Mitch Marner will not be returning to the Toronto Maple Leafs next season, signaling a significant shift for the team.

Another player to watch is Jordan Spence of the Los Angeles Kings, who may be on the trading block. Spence has shown impressive defensive statistics, leading Kings defenders in key metrics, yet the Kings might feel the need to move him to accommodate Brandt Clarke. Lastly, questions loom about the Colorado Avalanche's salary cap situation, with speculation that it might not be as dire as previously thought.

The Los Angeles Kings continued their impressive push for playoff positioning with a commanding 6-1 victory over the Anaheim Ducks, highlighted by a stellar performance from Kevin Fiala, who scored twice. Quinton Byfield kicked off the scoring early, and Anze Kopitar, Alex Laferriere, and Jordan Spence also contributed goals, while Andrei Kuzmenko and Adrian Kempe each racked up three assists. Darcy Kuemper was formidable in goal, extending his streak of allowing two or fewer goals to 15 games, just shy of an NHL record.

This victory solidified the Kings’ four-point lead over the Edmonton Oilers in the Pacific Division race, which sets the stage for a likely first-round playoff matchup between the two teams. The Kings have the edge with the league’s best home record, making home-ice advantage crucial. Despite the loss, the Ducks matched their best regular-season win total since 2018-19 with 35 wins.

In a thrilling matchup, Jaden Schwartz led the Seattle Kraken to a 4-2 victory over the Los Angeles Kings with a remarkable hat trick, marking his 16th goal of the season. Schwartz scored just 28 seconds into the game, putting Seattle ahead early, before adding a second goal to break a 1-1 tie in the second period. Chandler Stephenson contributed to the scoring with a goal that gave the Kraken a decisive lead. On the other side, Adrian Kempe and Jordan Spence found the back of the net for the Kings, but they were unable to match the Kraken's offensive prowess.

Joey Daccord played a crucial role, making 17 of his 28 saves in a high-pressure third period, ensuring the Kraken held their lead. As the game drew to a close, Schwartz sealed the win with an empty-net goal, highlighting his importance in the contest. The Kraken's defense was also noteworthy, as they managed to block 22 shots throughout the game, demonstrating their resilience against the Kings' offensive efforts.

This victory marked the Kraken's 10th home win, improving their record to 20-24-3, while the Kings fell to 25-13-2. Both teams are set to return to action on Monday, with Los Angeles facing off against the Pittsburgh Penguins, and Seattle taking on the Buffalo Sabres.

Jaden Schwartz propelled the Seattle Kraken to a 4-2 victory over the Los Angeles Kings with a stellar hat trick performance on Saturday night. Schwartz's scoring started just 28 seconds into the game, adding another goal later in the first period before capping off his night with an empty-netter, marking his 16th goal this season. Chandler Stephenson also contributed with a pivotal go-ahead goal in the second period.

Despite efforts from Adrian Kempe and Jordan Spence, who found the net for the Kings, the Kraken's goaltender Joey Daccord made crucial saves, particularly in the final period. Seattle's defense demonstrated resilience, blocking 22 shots throughout the game. The victory marked the Kraken's tenth consecutive home win, improving their record to 20-24-3, while the Kings fell to 25-13-2.

Anze Kopitar and Kevin Fiala each netted two goals as the Los Angeles Kings triumphed over the Philadelphia Flyers with a score of 7-3. Kopitar's tying goal late in the second period was pivotal, followed by a third-period insurance goal. The Kings have now won eight of their last eleven games.

Warren Foegele scored the game-winner early in the third period, while Tyson Foerster shone for the Flyers with two goals. This loss marks Philadelphia's third consecutive defeat.