The Los Angeles Kings have called up goaltender Erik Portillo from their AHL affiliate, the Ontario Reign, due to Darcy Kuemper’s unexpected illness. Kuemper, who serves as the team’s starting goalie, is expected to miss at least the upcoming game against the Colorado Avalanche, confirmed by team reporter Zach Dooley. This recall highlights the Kings’ plan to maintain stability in net despite Kuemper’s absence.
Portillo’s Previous Involvement with the Kings During Kuemper’s Absences
This is not the first time Portillo has been summoned to support the Kings while Kuemper is out of action. During the Olympic break when Kuemper was in Italy competing for Canada, Portillo was temporarily brought up to practice with the team. However, unlike that instance, this recall includes an actual game, positioning Portillo to take on the backup goalie role in a competitive setting.
Background and Development of Erik Portillo
Erik Portillo was selected by the Buffalo Sabres in the third round of the 2019 NHL Draft and has been developing steadily within the Kings organization over the past two and a half years. Prior to turning professional, Portillo established himself as a top-tier goaltender in the USHL with the Dubuque Fighting Saints and the NCAA’s Michigan Wolverines. He began his pro career in the 2023-24 season, appearing in 39 games for the Ontario Reign and posting a respectable .918 save percentage, which showed his ability to handle the increased workload and responsibility of a starting goaltender role.
Challenges Faced During the 2024-25 Season
The following season presented difficulties for Portillo, as his save percentage dropped to .889. This decline partially reflects changes within the Kings’ depth chart after the arrival of Darcy Kuemper. During 2023-24, veteran goaltender David Rittich’s solid presence allowed Portillo to play frequently in the AHL. The dynamic shifted in 2024-25 when Kuemper emerged as a Vezina Trophy candidate and solidified the Kings’ starting spot, pushing other goalies like Pheonix Copley off the NHL roster. Copley assumed the starting role in Ontario, limiting Portillo’s appearances to a backup’s schedule, a role that many goaltenders find challenging due to disrupted rhythm and consistency.
Current Season Progress and Future Outlook
In the current season, Portillo seems to have regained form and confidence, splitting goaltending duties more evenly with Copley. He has played in 20 games and holds a 14-3-1 record with a .905 save percentage, significantly outperforming Copley’s .891 mark. With a contract extending through the next season and a cap hit of $783,000, Portillo may soon emerge as a viable NHL option for the Kings. Nonetheless, Darcy Kuemper and Jonathan Forsberg remain under contract, ensuring continued competition for the goaltending spot.
Implications of Portillo’s Recall for the Kings’ Goaltending Depth
The Kings’ decision to recall Erik Portillo reflects a careful approach to managing their goaltending depth amid unexpected player absences. Portillo’s experience and recent performance offer reassurance that the team can handle emergencies without compromising their defensive stability. This call-up also underscores the organization’s confidence in Portillo’s ability to contribute at the NHL level, especially as Kuemper’s health and availability remain uncertain. The outcome of this stint could influence future roster decisions regarding the team’s netminder hierarchy.
The @LAKings have recalled goaltender Erik Portillo from the @ontarioreign (AHL).
— LA Kings PR (@LAKingsPR) March 2, 2026
have not heard he is officially out, no, but expecting that Portillo backs up Forsberg tonight with today's recall.
— Zach Dooley (@DooleyLAK) March 2, 2026
