Kings’ Perfect Preseason Ends

The Kings suffered their first defeat of the preseason, losing, 4-3, in overtime to the Dallas Stars as defenseman Craig Ludwig scored at 2:49 on Tuesday night before 4,127 at the Forum. For the Kings, forward Paul DiPietro had a goal and an assist and goaltender Byron Dafoe faced 38 shots.

Dallas had trailed, 3-2, after two periods. Also scoring for the Kings were forwards Dimitri Khristich and Dan Bylsma. Benoit Hogue had two goals for the Stars. The Kings (4-1) have two exhibitions left.

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As it turned out, defenseman Rob Blake’s elbow infection was caused, in part, by a contusion as well as a partially torn tricep muscle suffered in the recent World Cup, according to the Kings. An MRI exam revealed the additional damage. He hopes to be ready for the season-opener on Oct. 4.