There were plenty of surprises on the first day of free agency from the fact that long-time nemesis Corey Perry signed with the team he tormented for years to the contract that Cody Ceci got. However, the signing of Anton Forsberg was surprising as well because the goaltender position seemed pretty well soldified going into next season.
The Kings know who their starter is and that will be Darcy Kuemper, who had an exceptional season and a Vezina Trophy finalist in his first season back with Los Angeles. There was expected to be changes to the backup goalie spot as David Rittich started the season well but struggled down the stretch.
It would have seemed that the LA Kings had his replacement already within the organization but instead went with signing free agent Anton Forsberg, who has played in 142 games over the past five seasons for the Ottawa Senators.
Let's take a look at one reason to love this signing for the LA Kings and one reason why fans might hate it.
Reason to love the signing of Anton Forsberg: Veteran presence behind Darcy Kuemper
The LA Kings have a dependable veteran that has been solid for the Senators the past four seasons when he has started 25 or more games in each season. During his time with Ottawa, he has had a save percentage of .905 and a goals against average of 2.99 but is coming off arguably his best season with a career-low goals against average of 2.72 and a career-high shutouts with three.
While Darcy Kuemper was great, he has also had some injury concerns over his career and that even showed up last season as he would be placed on injured reserve twice early in the season. A veteran like Forsberg can step up and help the Kings if this is an issue next season.
Reason to hate the signing of Anton Forsberg: Blocks Erik Portillo's path to the NHL
While the Kings decided to go the veteran route, it creates a big question mark on what they do with Erik Portillo. The Kings traded for him with the Buffalo Sabres a few years ago and after time with the Ontario Reign, this season seemed like it was time for him to move up to the NHL.
However, with the Kings signing Forsberg to a two-year contract it is hard to see a path to the NHL for the younger player. The Kings now have Forsberg, Kuemper, and Portillo under contract through the 2026-27 season and if Portillo doesn't get time with the Kings it raises the question if he will be the player to replace Kuemper.
With the depth the Kings have at the position among their prospects, it wouldn't be surprising to see them entertain trade offers this summer with Portillo now unlikely to be in the NHL any time soon.