In a disappointing 4-1 defeat to the Los Angeles Kings, Montreal Canadiens defenceman Mike Matheson sustained an upper-body injury early in the game, forcing him to sit out the second period. Lane Hutson stepped up, logging a career-high 30:05 of ice time.

Despite an early goal from Justin Barron, the Canadiens faltered as the Kings scored four unanswered goals. Goalie Sam Montembeault struggled with point shots, while Adrian Kempe sealed the game with a shorthanded empty-netter.

The Canadiens now face scrutiny as they have lost two straight at home, raising concerns about the team's performance and lineup decisions.