Veteran Corey Perry Set for LA Kings Debut as Captain Kopitar Lands on Injured Reserve

The Los Angeles Kings have activated veteran forward Corey Perry. He will make his team debut against the St. Louis Blues. The move comes as captain Anze Kopitar is placed on injured reserve. This significantly reshapes the team’s lineup amid a slow start.

According to Reuters, the 40-year-old Perry is starting his 21st NHL season. He signed with the Kings last summer but injured his knee before training camp. His return comes earlier than the initial six-to-eight-week prognosis after surgery.

Roster Shuffle Amid Team’s Slumping Performance

Perry’s debut is a bright spot for the struggling Kings. The team has a 1-3-2 record to begin the season. They are currently on a four-game losing streak. This roster change occurs at the start of a challenging five-game road trip.

Kopitar’s absence is a major blow. The captain is week-to-week with a foot injury. He was hit by a deflected puck in a game against Minnesota. Kopitar had previously announced he will retire after this, his 20th season.

Perry’s Veteran Presence and Playoff Pedigree

Corey Perry brings extensive experience to the Kings lineup. He is a former NHL MVP, winning the award in 2011. Perry spent his first 14 seasons with the Kings’ rivals, the Anaheim Ducks. He has since played for several other teams.

His recent playoff history is remarkable. Perry has appeared in the Stanley Cup Final in five of the last six seasons. He has, however, lost on each occasion. The Kings will hope his veteran leadership can help stabilize their early campaign.

The activation of Corey Perry provides a crucial offensive option for the Kings. His debut is a key moment for the team as they navigate their captain’s injury. This veteran move could be the spark the Kings need to reverse their fortunes.

Info at your fingertips

When is Corey Perry making his Kings debut?

Corey Perry is set to play his first game for the Los Angeles Kings against the St. Louis Blues. The game occurs during a five-game road trip for the team. His debut comes after a quicker-than-expected recovery from knee surgery.

How long is Anze Kopitar expected to be out?

Captain Anze Kopitar is listed as week-to-week with his foot injury. He was placed on injured reserve, which requires a player to miss at least seven days. The team has not provided a specific timeline for his return to the ice.

What is Corey Perry’s career history?

Perry has 448 goals and 487 assists in his long career. He spent 14 seasons with the Anaheim Ducks before playing for Dallas, Montreal, Tampa Bay, Chicago, and Edmonton. The 2011 MVP is beginning his 21st NHL season.

How have the Kings performed this season?

The Kings are off to a difficult 1-3-2 start. They are currently riding a four-game losing streak. The team hopes Perry’s addition can help turn their early season around.

Why is this season significant for Anze Kopitar?

Anze Kopitar announced he will retire at the end of this season. This is his 20th year in the National Hockey League. The foot injury now temporarily interrupts his final campaign.