Kings Goalie Darcy Kuemper Injured Again

The Los Angeles Kings suffered a 4-2 defeat against the Colorado Avalanche, with starting goalie Darcy Kuemper leaving the game in the third period due to an undisclosed injury. Kuemper has been placed on injured reserve, marking his second stint this season, which may extend his absence beyond a minimum of seven days. In his place, David Rittich is expected to step up as the starter, while rookie Erik Portillo, who has been recalled, could make his NHL debut. Mikko Rantanen starred for Colorado with a hat trick, while the Kings struggled offensively, even tying an NHL record for fewest shots in a period. This loss reflects the Kings' inconsistency, as they have not won or lost more than two games in a row recently, despite sitting at the top of the Pacific Division. The Kings are set to host the Detroit Red Wings next, hoping to recover from this setback.