David Rittich will be taking over as 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 of the series, with a 5.31 goals-against average and .891 save percentage. Talbot allowed 13 goals in the two losses, including a 6-1 defeat in Game 3 that gave the Oilers a 2-1 series lead. Kings interim coach Jim Hiller announced the change after informing both goalies of his decision on Saturday, stating that Rittich will be getting the start in Game 4.
Rittich, who played in 24 games during the regular season, starting 22 of them, had an impressive 13-6-3 record with a 2.15 goals-against average and a .921 save percentage. He also recorded three shutouts, one of which came against the Oilers on Feb. 10 in a 4-0 victory. Rittich’s last start was on April 13 against Anaheim, where he made 28 saves in a 3-1 win. Coach Hiller expressed confidence in Rittich’s abilities, noting that he has played well after sitting out for a period of time, making him a strong choice to start in Game 4 against the Oilers.
Despite this being only his second career postseason start, Rittich is looking to redeem himself after a rough outing in Game 1 of the 2022 playoffs while playing for the Nashville Predators against the Colorado Avalanche. In that game, he allowed five goals on 13 shots in the first 15 minutes, leading to a 7-2 loss. However, Hiller believes in Rittich’s abilities and performance, especially considering his recent strong showings, including the shutout victory over the Oilers earlier in the season. This Game 4 matchup against the Oilers will be a crucial opportunity for Rittich to prove himself on the playoff stage.
Rittich’s performance in Game 4 will be instrumental in determining the outcome of the series as the Kings look to even the score against the Oilers and force a Game 5. With the series currently in favor of the Oilers, Rittich’s presence in the net could provide the Kings with the stability and confidence needed to mount a comeback. Hiller’s decision to start Rittich showcases his trust in the goalie’s abilities, and the Kings will be looking to their netminder to deliver a strong performance and help lead them to victory in a pivotal Game 4 matchup.
As the Kings prepare to face off against the Oilers in Game 4, the spotlight will be on Rittich as he steps into the starting goaltender role for a crucial postseason game. With the pressure on to deliver a strong performance and turn the series in the Kings’ favor, Rittich will need to draw upon his regular-season success and previous playoff experience to rise to the occasion. The outcome of Game 4 will not only impact the series between the Kings and Oilers but also serve as an opportunity for Rittich to establish himself as a reliable and capable starter in the playoffs.
