Darcy Kuemper’s Nightmare Return Raises Immediate Questions For Kings

Darcy Kuemper surrendered eight goals on 29 shots during the Los Angeles Kings' season-opening defeat to the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena. The Avalanche scored four times on the power play to secure the rout. Writer Ryan O'Hara questions head coach Peter Laviolette's decision to start Kuemper after the goaltender endured preseason struggles.

O'Hara argues that the Kings should have started Anton Forsberg, citing Forsberg's competitive performance against Colorado during the prior postseason sweep. Despite Kuemper's $5.25 million salary, O'Hara writes that Laviolette must take accountability for the goaltending choice as Los Angeles prepares to face the San Jose Sharks on Saturday.