The Los Angeles Kings are preparing for arguably their biggest game in the early parts of the season as they head to Las Vegas for a key divisional matchup against the Golden Knights. After a few shaky performances against the Senators and Maple Leafs, they have now won back-to-back games against the Canadiens and Sharks.
One of the reasons for the wins has been David Rittich, who has allowed only two goals during that stretch. Rittich has been the team's starting goaltender due to an injury suffered by Darcy Kuemper, who hasn't been on the ice since he gave up eight goals to the Senators.
Over the weekend, the Kings placed Darcy Kuemper on injured reserve due to the injury and he only has to miss seven days. The move can be retroactive so Kuemper in theory could be available for the game against the Golden Knights.
Darcy Kuemper making progress but not quite ready for the Los Angeles Kings
On Monday, Darcy Kuemper was on the ice in practice which was the first time he has been able to do that since the injury. After practice, Jim Hiller was asked about the starting goalie and said:
"He is making progress but he is still not there yet. I still haven't talked to him or heard how it went for him but definitely good to see him out there with the group."
While this is an important game, it makes sense for the Los Angeles Kings to be cautious with Kuemper knowing it is a long season. The fact that David Rittich also has played pretty well as of late should factor into that decision and at this point, he should get the start against the Golden Knights.
If Kuemper is not able to play, then the next opportunity would be on Thursday night in the home opener against the San Jose Sharks.