The Los Angeles Kings have recalled goaltender Pheonix Copley from their AHL affiliate, the Ontario Reign, earlier today, coinciding with the placement of forward Kevin Fiala on the injured reserve list. This adjustment comes as the Kings prepare for upcoming games while managing injuries and Olympic team absences.
Copley Expected to Support Team During Olympic Break
Pheonix Copley is anticipated to join the Kings primarily as a practice player while the team’s regular starter, Darcy Kuemper, competes for Team Canada in the Winter Olympics. Kuemper’s squad has secured at least a Bronze Medal game berth, allowing the Kings time to reorganize before returning to NHL competition next week.
Copley’s history with the Kings dates back several years, following a short period with the Tampa Bay Lightning. He has spent much of the last two seasons playing with the Ontario Reign. This campaign, Copley has appeared in 24 games, posting a 13-11-0 record with a .890 save percentage and a 2.95 goals-against average, indicating solid if mixed performances in the AHL.
Kevin Fiala’s Injury Forces Long-Term Absence
Forward Kevin Fiala’s move to the injured reserve was anticipated after he sustained multiple leg fractures during a game for Team Switzerland against Canada in the Olympics. The severity of his injuries necessitated immediate surgical intervention, abruptly ending his 2025-26 season with the Kings.
Although Fiala could have been placed on long-term injured reserve, the Kings chose not to due to their available salary cap space, opting instead for the standard injured reserve designation. His absence will likely affect the Kings’ offensive depth throughout the remainder of the season.
Team Adjustments Expected Ahead of Trade Deadline
With Fiala sidelined, the Kings face new challenges in maintaining their scoring capability. Before the Olympics, Los Angeles had acquired winger Artemi Panarin to bolster offense while Fiala was healthy. However, this unforeseen injury is expected to prompt the team to explore additional player acquisitions as they approach the trade deadline, addressing their urgent need for goal-scoring reinforcements.
The @LAKings have announced the following roster transactions:
– Goaltender Pheonix Copley has been recalled from the @ontarioreign, the Kings’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate.
– Forward Kevin Fiala has been placed on injured reserve (IR).
— LA Kings PR (@LAKingsPR) February 18, 2026
