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Kings Pacific Showdown: Goalies – Yahoo Sports

The Hockey News - Los Angeles Kings

The Kings gambled on familiarity two offseasons ago by signing Cam Talbot. Talbot had previously played under then-head coach Todd McLellan in Edmonton and was signed to Los Angeles for the 2023-24 season. Although both Talbot and McLellan have since left LA, Talbot was able to reinvigorate his career as a King.

The Kings made a risky move with Pierre-Luc Dubois, who soured and was traded for Darcy Kuemper. While Kuemper had experience in the Kings organization and is a Stanley Cup Champion, he came with risks after two disappointing seasons in Washington, where he lost his starting position to backup Charlie Lindgren.

One-for-one swaps can often be hit or miss. Dubois struggled in LA, while Kuemper had his challenges in Washington. Among the goaltenders who have played 18 or more games this season, Kuemper ranks 21st in Goals Saved Above Expected (GSAE) at 2.4, which, among starters, isn’t anything flashy. However, his save percentage on unblocked shots is an impressive ninth overall at .959%. With the Kings’ strong defense in front of him, his goals-against average (GAA) is fourth overall at 2.29. Kuemper’s Wins Above Replacement (WAR) is below average at 21st overall, at 0.40, suggesting he isn’t solely responsible for the team’s success. However, he has been excellent for the Kings recently, trending more toward being an ace goaltender rather than just average.

In his last eight games, Kuemper is unbeaten in regulation with a record of 6-0-2, a GAA of 1.86, and a save percentage of .931%. He delivered a standout performance in a recent game against one of the league’s top teams, the New Jersey Devils, recording his second shutout of the season in what could be termed a “steal,” similar to his first shutout against Buffalo. Kuemper has proven to be very reliable for the Kings, even without needing to be the star on a defensively dominant team. Adding to his value, he has a .900 SV % on high danger unblocked shots on the penalty kill, suitable for 3rd overall (14 games played or more).

Backing up Kuemper is David Rittich, who is in his second season with LA. Rittich is just two wins away from matching his total from last season (13), primarily due to Kuemper’s injuries. However, Rittich has struggled this season and has not been the reliable backup he was last year, posting a save percentage (SV%) of .887 and a GAA of 2.55. This compares unfavorably to last season’s split of .921 SV% and a GAA of 2.15 despite making four more starts (22 games compared to…

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