Jets vs Kings Picks and Prediction – 11/28/2024

The Winnipeg Jets, sitting atop the Central Division with an 18-4 record, are heading to Los Angeles to face the Kings, who stand at 11-8-3 and third in the Pacific Division. Winnipeg won the last game 4-1 against the Minnesota Wild, while the Kings suffered a tough 7-2 loss to the San Jose Sharks. Hit the ice running with our NHL picks.

Winnipeg has been dominant offensively, leading the league with 89 goals scored, thanks to contributors like Kyle Connor, who has netted 13 goals and added 14 assists, and Josh Morrissey with 18 assists. The power play operates at a blistering 33.8%, and shooting accuracy ranks third in the league at 13.4%. 

Defensively, the Jets are just as solid, allowing the second-fewest goals (52) in the NHL. Connor Hellebuyck has been stellar in net, boasting a 2.06 GAA and a .929 save percentage, with three shutouts to his name. Despite injuries to defensemen Dylan Samberg and Logan Stanley, Winnipeg’s depth continues to shine.

Los Angeles has struggled to maintain consistency, especially after a recent lopsided defeat. Offensively, Adrian Kempe leads the team with 10 goals, while Anze Kopitar adds balance with six goals and 19 assists. However, the Kings have managed just 65 goals this season, ranking 15th in the league. 

Defensively, they have conceded 63 goals, placing them 14th. Goaltender David Rittich’s .883 save percentage and 2.65 GAA illustrate the team's challenges between the pipes, especially with Darcy Kuemper on injured reserve. Despite a penalty kill slightly better than Winnipeg’s at 79.5%, the power play languishes near the bottom of the league at 15.2%.

The Jets bring both offensive firepower and defensive discipline to the table, making them a tough matchup for the Kings, especially given Los Angeles’ recent struggles in net. Winnipeg's lethal power play and superior goaltending should be decisive. Final Score Prediction: Winnipeg Jets win 4-2.