Kings Secure Pheonix Copley to Boost Goalie Depth Amid Injuries

The Los Angeles Kings have reinforced their goaltending lineup by reacquiring veteran goalie Pheonix Copley from the Tampa Bay Lightning. This move comes in response to a lower-body injury affecting starter Darcy Kuemper, who has been unable to participate fully in practices. Copley, 33, was traded for future considerations, marking his return to a team he previously served for three years.

Copley spent last season playing for the AHL’s Ontario Reign, where he appeared in 42 games. He had a notable stint with the Kings during the 2022-23 season, starting 35 games before undergoing knee surgery that sidelined him for most of the current season. His experience and familiarity with the organization make him a strategic acquisition as the Kings navigate early-season challenges.

The Lightning claimed Copley off waivers earlier this month, driven by concerns over the health of their starting goalie, Andrei Vasilevskiy, who had been struggling with an injury during training camp. Fortunately for Tampa Bay, Vasilevskiy was cleared to play in the season opener, alleviating immediate concerns.

In the absence of Kuemper, who was a Vezina Trophy finalist last season, Anton Forsberg has stepped up as the primary backup. Forsberg has started in the Kings’ only victory this season, improving their record to 1-2-1. However, both Kuemper and team captain Anze Kopitar missed practice on Wednesday due to their respective lower-body injuries, raising further questions about the team’s lineup for their upcoming game.

The Kings are set to face the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday, and Forsberg is likely to assume the starting position in goal. As the team continues to adapt to the early setbacks, the addition of Copley may provide the necessary depth and experience to stabilize the situation during this critical phase of the season.