Wild vs. Kings Preview, Odds, and Picks (Jan 5)

NHL action is set for Jan 5, as the LA Kings host the Minnesota Wild. The visitors will be aiming to get back on track following a recent defeat, while the Kings are chasing successive wins. Find the odds and our picks here.

How to Watch

• When: Monday, January 5, 2026. 10:30 PM ET
• Where: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
• How to Watch: ESPN+

Wild vs. Kings Odds

Wild vs. Kings Head-to-Head

The Wild hold the narrow 44-41 advantage in previous head-to-head meetings. Meanwhile, they have recorded victories in 42% of their games against the Kings on the road. Minnesota have also recorded wins in two of the last three head-to-head clashes between the teams.

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Game Preview

The LA Kings will have the home ice advantage this week, as they chase a second straight win. They currently sit fifth in the Pacific Division after accumulating an overall record of 17-14-9 this term. Scoring goals has been a continued issue for the Kings in 2025-26, netting just 107 across their 40 games.

The Crypto.com Arena has hardly been a fortress so far this season, as the Kings have gone 6-9-4 with home ice advantage. But, they did land a hard-fought 5-4 shootout success against the Wild at home over the weekend. Quinton Byfield was a standout player in the win, scoring and recording one assist.

Minnesota should bring confidence into this clash after going 6-1-3 over their last ten. However, they were edged out by the Kings in their previous outing, which may be a slight concern. Despite that, the Wild have suffered just one regulation time defeat in their last ten, and they sit third in the Central Division standings.

Only the Stars and Avalanche have suffered more regulation defeats than the Wild in the Central Division so far this season. Meanwhile, the Wild have been efficient on the road, accumulating an overall road record of 12-6-3. Matt Boldy has been a standout player in the offensive areas, netting a team-high of 26 goals.

Wild vs. Kings Picks

The Wild should have the overall momentum to avenge their recent defeat against the Kings this week. Their offensive quality should ensure that they are able to improve on their productive road record in 2025-26.

Free NHL Pick:

• Minnesota Wild (-117)