While all those around you lose, it’s time to take charge. The Los Angeles Kings did just that on Monday night and defeated the visiting Colorado Avalanche, 3-1.
Torrey Mitchell, Dustin Brown and Kyle Clifford struck for the Kings as they reclaimed third place in the Pacific Division from the idle Anaheim Ducks.
“It’s a big step,” Brown said. “Things have to go really wrong for us and really good for 
other teams, but you’re never in until you’re in.”
The Kings improved to 44-28-8.
Jonathan Quick made 27 saves to pick up the win.
“You see what guys are willing to do this time of year and emotionally invest in a game. I thought everybody was willing to dig in when the game matters. We all know the enormity of this game for both teams, and we knew it was going to take a second and third effort on a lot of plays to get it done,” LA head coach John Steven said after the win.
Alexander Kerfoot scored the lone Avs goal on the power play as they dropped to 42-29-9 but still hold the second wild card spot in the Western Conference.
“Our mindset is that we are underdogs,” the Avs’ Nikita Zadorov said. “We have a young team, but there are still no excuses. We know we should be in the playoffs. We are a good team and we’ve worked hard all season. We’ve got to get creative.”
[WATCH: All Avalanche vs. Kings highlights]
Jonathan Bernier made 22 saves in taking the loss.
“We cannot control what the Blues did or what they are going to do later. We got one game against them, we got a game in San Jose. We need to focus, reload, and then go up there and win those two hockey games,” the Avs’ Nikita Zadorov said after the loss.
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