Los Angeles Kings host New York Islanders in non-conference matchup

The two teams face off in a cross-country NHL showdown.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The New York Islanders, currently in third place in the Metropolitan Division, will travel to Los Angeles to take on the Kings, who are in the middle of the pack in the Pacific Division. This non-conference game will pit two teams looking to improve their playoff positioning as the season winds down.

Why it matters

This matchup between the Islanders and Kings features two teams with different playoff aspirations. The Islanders are jockeying for position in a tight Metropolitan Division race, while the Kings are hoping to solidify their standing in the Western Conference playoff picture.

The details

The Islanders are led by star center Mathew Barzal, who has 25 goals and 40 assists on the season. The Kings counter with veteran goaltender Jonathan Quick, who has been a stalwart in net for the team. Both teams will be looking to pick up a crucial two points in the standings with the playoffs rapidly approaching.

  • The game will take place on March 5, 2026.
  • Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 PM Pacific Time.

The players

Mathew Barzal

A star center for the New York Islanders who has 25 goals and 40 assists this season.

Jonathan Quick

The veteran goaltender for the Los Angeles Kings, known for his consistent play in net.

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What they’re saying

“This is a big game for us as we try to solidify our playoff position. The Islanders are a tough team, but we're ready for the challenge.”

— Anze Kopitar, Captain, Los Angeles Kings (Los Angeles Times)

“We know the Kings will be a tough opponent, but we're confident in our ability to come away with a win on the road. Every point is crucial at this stage of the season.”

— Anders Lee, Captain, New York Islanders (Newsday)

What’s next

The winner of this game will gain valuable ground in their respective division playoff races as the regular season winds down.

The takeaway

This non-conference matchup between the Islanders and Kings features two teams with different playoff aspirations, but both will be fighting hard to pick up a crucial two points in the standings.