LOS ANGELES -- Connor Bedard scored for the third straight game in the Chicago Blackhawks’ 2-1 win against the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena on Thursday.

The Chicago Blackhawks have been one of the NHL's most pleasant surprises this season. After entering the season expected to be among the bottom NHL clubs again, the Blackhawks instead have a 12-9-6 record and are fifth in the Central Division.

Both teams boasting young stars, the Ducks sit atop the Pacific and the Blackhawks looks like postseason contenders going into Sunday’s game at Honda Center.

Blackhawks take on the Kings at Crpytpo.com Arena for the third and final meeting between the two clubs this season

Current Vezina candidate Spencer Knight (9-5-5) is expected to make 20th start of the season. The Blackhawks will roll with the exact same lineup as they did in their 2-1 victory over the Kings on Thursday. Which includes an 11 forward and 7 defence approach.

Chicago Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill provided some honest thoughts on the steps taken by star forward Connor Bedard.

The Chicago Blackhawks and LA Kings meet Thursday in the front end of a back-to-back. Puck drop from Crypto.com Arena is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET.

The Kings welcomed top defenseman Drew Doughty back after he missed seven games because of a foot injury. Doughty was injured blocking a shot against Ottawa on Nov. 15.

The Chicago Blackhawks entered the season with high hopes for young defenseman Sam Rinzel, especially after his impressive NHL debut last spring and steady early-season play.

The Kings, who take on Chicago on Saturday evening, are searching for answers for their lackluster offense after having lost six of their past eight games.