NHL

Kings hold on for 3-2 win over Sharks behind Carter's goal

Associated Press
Published | Updated

Los Angeles Kings defenseman Drew Doughty, right, is congratulated on his goal by center Nic Dowd during the second period of an NHL hockey game against the San Jose Sharks, Saturday, Dec. 31, 2016, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) (The Associated Press)

CORRECTS TO SECOND PERIOD - Los Angeles Kings right wing Marian Gaborik, right, of Slovakia, passes the puck while under pressure from San Jose Sharks defenseman Brent Burns during the second period of an NHL hockey game, Saturday, Dec. 31, 2016, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) (The Associated Press)

San Jose Sharks right wing Timo Meier, center, of Switzerland, takes a hit from Los Angeles Kings center Nic Dowd during the first period of an NHL hockey game, Saturday, Dec. 31, 2016, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) (The Associated Press)

Jeff Carter, Drew Doughty and Tanner Pearson each scored a goal, and the Los Angeles Kings returned home to beat the San Jose Sharks 3-2 on Saturday night.

Peter Budaj make 18 saves and Alec Martinez had two assists, helping end the Sharks' four-game winning streak. The Kings stopped a three-game losing streak by breaking out of an offensive funk that sunk their nine-game road trip.

Los Angeles has now earned a point in 12 of 16 games at Staples Center this season.

Brent Burns scored his 15th goal of the season, Kevin Labanc added a goal, and Martin Jones stopped 24 shots for the Sharks, who had won the first two games in the season series by allowing just two goals.