The Los Angeles Kings are set to face the San Jose Sharks on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, without several key players, significantly impacting their lineup. Injuries and personal matters have left the Kings shorthanded, complicating their efforts to improve their scoring, which has already been a challenge this season.
Anže Kopitar will miss the game due to a lower-body injury, adding to the team’s woes. This marks his second stint on the injury report this season, having previously missed four games earlier due to a foot injury. The veteran forward has recorded 21 points in 37 games, a drop in production during his final season, although his overall performance metrics remain solid.
Joining Kopitar on the sidelines is Trevor Moore, who has been ruled day-to-day with an upper-body injury. Moore had been out since December 29 due to illness before his recent injury. Additionally, Joel Armia will also be unavailable, as he suffered an upper-body injury during the Kings’ recent victory against the Minnesota Wild.
In an unexpected turn, Corey Perry has been placed on non-roster status as he attends to a family matter. Perry has enjoyed a commendable season, showing promise as one of the standout players among the Kings’ offseason acquisitions. He is on track for his highest point total since the 2017-18 season, a year that included a Hart Trophy and a Stanley Cup during his tenure with the Anaheim Ducks.
To fill the gaps left by these absences, the Kings have recalled forwards Andre Lee and Taylor Ward from the Ontario Reign. Ward, who made his NHL debut last season, scored his first career goal in a game against the Calgary Flames. Lee, who also made his debut last year, recorded his first NHL goal in a victory over New Jersey on January 1, 2025.
Additionally, defenseman Jacob Moverare will suit up for the ninth time this season, marking his second appearance as a seventh defenseman. Moverare previously filled in for Drew Doughty during a seven-game absence due to injury, but faced limited playtime in his last outing.
As is customary in the NHL, the Kings have not disclosed the specific details regarding the extent of their players’ injuries, nor has there been any indication of how long Perry is expected to be away from the team. The challenges ahead will test the Kings’ depth, particularly as they navigate a competitive schedule in the coming weeks.
