David Rittich has been named the starting goaltender for the Los Angeles Kings in Game 4 of their first-round NHL playoffs series against the Edmonton Oilers. This decision comes after Cam Talbot struggled in the first three games, posting a 5.31 goals-against average and .891 save percentage. Talbot allowed 13 goals in the Kings’ two losses, including a 6-1 loss in Game 3 that put the Oilers up 2-1 in the series. Kings interim coach Jim Hiller informed the goalies of his decision on Saturday, stating that Rittich will get the start in Game 4.
Rittich played in 24 games during the regular season, starting 22 of them. He had a solid 13-6-3 record with a 2.15 goals-against average and .921 save percentage. Rittich also recorded three shutouts during the season, one of which came against the Oilers on February 10 when he stopped 26 shots in a 4-0 victory. His last start was on April 13 against Anaheim, where he made 28 saves in a 3-1 win. Hiller expressed confidence in Rittich’s abilities, noting that he has played well in previous games despite sitting for a while, and the team is confident in his ability to perform against the Oilers in Game 4.
This will be Rittich’s second career postseason start, with his first coming in Game 1 of the Nashville Predators’ first-round series against the Colorado Avalanche in 2022. Despite a rough start in that game, where he allowed five goals on 13 shots in the first 15 minutes, Rittich will have the opportunity to redeem himself in Game 4 against the Oilers. The Kings are hoping that Rittich’s experience and skill will help turn the tide in the series and give them a chance to even the score against Edmonton.
The decision to start Rittich over Talbot comes as the Kings look to shake things up and find a way to overcome the Oilers’ offense. Talbot’s struggles in the first three games prompted the coaching staff to make a change in goal, with the hope that Rittich can provide a spark and help the team get back on track. Hiller praised Talbot for his efforts but ultimately decided to turn to Rittich for Game 4 in a strategic move to try and shift the momentum in the Kings’ favor.
As the Kings prepare to face the Oilers in Game 4, Rittich’s performance will be crucial in determining the outcome of the series. With the team down 2-1, a strong showing from Rittich in goal could be the difference-maker in helping the Kings claw their way back into contention. The pressure will be on Rittich to deliver a solid performance and give his team a chance to even the series and stay alive in the playoffs. The Kings are counting on Rittich to showcase his skills and help lead them to victory in Game 4.
