Los Angeles Kings goalie Darcy Kuemper exited the game against the New York Rangers on Tuesday night following a crease collision in the first period. The nature and severity of Kuemper’s injury remained undisclosed by Los Angeles head coach Jim Hiller, who mentioned that more information might be available the next day.
The incident occurred when the Rangers’ Jonny Brodzinski made contact with Kuemper’s head during a two-on-one rush to the net. Despite the collision not being forceful, Kuemper signaled for play to stop and skated off the ice gingerly with 38.8 seconds remaining in the period.
Kuemper had previously missed part of December due to a head injury sustained in a game against Dallas. Hiller stated that the current injury does not seem to be as severe as the previous one, based on initial assessments. Kuemper, who is slated to represent Canada at the upcoming Olympics, returned to the Kings’ lineup on January 1 and has participated in most games this month.
In Kuemper’s absence, backup Anton Forsberg stepped in and delivered a remarkable performance with 28 saves, contributing significantly to the Kings’ 4-3 victory. The win ended a four-game losing streak for Los Angeles, who will next play on Saturday as they embark on a six-game road trip starting in St. Louis.
Kuemper, a 14-year NHL veteran from Saskatchewan and a Stanley Cup winner with the Colorado Avalanche in 2022, was named to Canada’s Olympic roster alongside goalies Jordan Binnington and Logan Thompson. Following the game, Forsberg shared his approach to stepping into the game unexpectedly and focusing on his performance.
The Kings’ victory over the Rangers marked a positive turn for the team, setting a hopeful tone as they prepare for their upcoming road trip.