Los Angeles, CA, January 21, 2026
Los Angeles Kings’ goaltender Darcy Kuemper left the game against the New York Rangers after a collision, but the Kings managed to secure a 4-3 victory. Backup Anton Forsberg took over in goal. Kuemper, who had recently returned from a previous injury, was placed on injured reserve. The Kings are now focusing on his recovery as they look forward to their next game against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Los Angeles, CA – Goalie Darcy Kuemper Injured in Kings’ 4-3 Victory Over Rangers
Los Angeles Kings’ goaltender Darcy Kuemper left the game against the New York Rangers on January 20, 2026, after a collision in the crease late in the first period. The Kings secured a 4-3 victory, snapping a four-game losing streak.
Injury Details
With only 38.8 seconds remaining in the first period, a collision occurred when Rangers’ forward Jonny Brodzinski skated hard towards the net and made contact with Kuemper’s head. While the impact did not seem severe at first glance, Kuemper exhibited caution while making his way back to the bench and subsequently headed to the Kings’ dressing room. Backup goaltender Anton Forsberg stepped in for the remainder of the match. Kuemper, who recently returned on January 1 after missing the latter half of December due to a previous head injury, had participated in nine games of the Kings’ eleven in January before this incident. A seasoned player at age 35, Kuemper was also selected for Canada’s Olympic roster, alongside goaltenders Jordan Binnington and Logan Thompson. His career spans 14 years in the NHL, highlighted by a Stanley Cup victory with Colorado in 2022.
Game Highlights
Despite the abrupt departure of Kuemper, the Kings managed to secure a hard-fought win against the Rangers. Kevin Fiala shone with a goal and an assist, while Forsberg demonstrated commendable skill in goal, logging 28 saves in relief. Other contributors included Adrian Kempe, Taylor Ward, and Andrei Kuzmenko, all of whom found the back of the net. This victory marked the Kings’ second regulation win in January, breaking a streak of four consecutive losses.
Team Response
In the wake of Kuemper’s injury, the Kings promptly placed him on injured reserve, thereby recalling goaltender Pheonix Copley from their AHL affiliate. Copley will serve as Forsberg’s backup during Kuemper’s recovery, showcasing the team’s proactive approach in ensuring stability in their goaltending position during this challenging phase.
Background
Throughout this season, Kuemper has proven to be a pivotal player for the Kings, maintaining a record of 10-6-6, a goals-against average of 2.19, and a save percentage of .917 across 23 appearances. His performance has been essential in navigating the team through the season’s highs and lows, bolstering their chances for a successful campaign.
Upcoming Schedule
The Kings are set to face the Tampa Bay Lightning on January 22, 2026. The team will diligently monitor Kuemper’s recovery and provide updates as they become available, hopeful for his return to the ice.
FAQ
What happened to Darcy Kuemper during the game against the New York Rangers?
Darcy Kuemper left the game after a collision in the crease with Rangers’ forward Jonny Brodzinski late in the first period. He was replaced by backup goaltender Anton Forsberg.
How did the Los Angeles Kings perform in the game against the Rangers?
The Kings secured a 4-3 victory over the Rangers, snapping a four-game losing streak. Kevin Fiala contributed a goal and an assist, and Anton Forsberg made 28 saves in relief.
What is Darcy Kuemper’s status following the injury?
Following the injury, Kuemper was placed on injured reserve, and goaltender Pheonix Copley was recalled from the AHL to back up Anton Forsberg during Kuemper’s absence.
What are Darcy Kuemper’s statistics this season?
Kuemper has a 10-6-6 record with a 2.19 goals-against average and a .917 save percentage in 23 appearances this season.
When is the Los Angeles Kings’ next game?
The Kings are scheduled to face the Tampa Bay Lightning on January 22, 2026.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injury | Darcy Kuemper left the game after a collision with Jonny Brodzinski late in the first period. |
| Game Outcome | The Kings won 4-3 against the Rangers, ending a four-game losing streak. |
| Kuemper’s Performance | Kuemper had a 10-6-6 record with a 2.19 goals-against average and a .917 save percentage in 23 appearances this season. |
| Team Response | Kuemper was placed on injured reserve, and Pheonix Copley was recalled from the AHL to back up Anton Forsberg. |
| Next Game | The Kings are scheduled to face the Tampa Bay Lightning on January 22, 2026. |
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