Kings Invade Anaheim in September Preseason Clash

The Kings roll into Honda Center for an early preseason tilt against the Ducks on September 23rd, and while it's just exhibition hockey, there's always juice when these SoCal rivals share the ice. Los Angeles enters the 2026-27 campaign looking to build on last season's playoff push, while Anaheim continues its youth movement with a roster that's equal parts promise and question marks.

Preseason games are notoriously tough to handicap—lineups are fluid, coaches are experimenting, and motivation levels vary wildly from shift to shift. The Kings typically ice a more veteran-heavy group even in tune-up games, which can translate to sharper execution against a Ducks squad that'll be showcasing prospects fighting for roster spots. That experience gap matters, especially early in camp when systems are still being drilled.

The Freeway Faceoff rivalry adds a layer of intensity that can override the usual preseason lethargy, but don't expect either team to show its full hand. DarkHorse hasn't weighed in with a pick yet, so we're flying blind on the sharp money angle. If you're betting this one, lean toward the team that looks more cohesive in the exhibition opener—usually the squad with more continuity and fewer rookies learning on the fly. That profile fits LA, but tread carefully in September.