Anton Forsberg's Rise Puts Pressure On Kuemper
Since suffering a midseason collision with Mikko Rantanen, Darcy Kuemper hasn't quite looked the same, and now Anton Forsberg's recent stretch of strong play can't be ignored.
While the Los Angeles Kings have questions looming about their playoff chances, it appears a change to their goaltending lineup might be necessary to qualify for the postseason. What once seemed like a definitive answer to having Darcy Kuemper as the starter on the crease for the Kings has now pivoted to a legitimate debate as to whether Kuemper should come off the bench and let Anton Forbseg take over the starting job. Kings game morning hangover recap - Missed opportunity on another off night in the Pacific.
- Darcy not the same since the Rantanen hit, Anton gotta be the starter. - Artemi is a game changer. - Better from Q, looks good with Moore.
- Saturday matinee with BUF. #GoKingsGo — Russell Morgan (@NHLRussell) March 20, 2026 Kuemper Hasn't Been The Same Following the hard collision that Kuemper took against Mikko Rantanen on Dec. 15 and the time he missed with an upper-body injury, the immediate concern was his health, especially at his age.
Kuemper would miss the next six games before returning on Jan. 1st, but for the most part, since returning, he hasn't played the way he did pre-injury. Before the injury, the 35-year-old was putting together a strong campaign, playing with composure and consistently winning games single-handedly for the Kings thanks to his defensive presence on the ice.