How Have the Kings Navigated Kevin Fiala’s Absence? – The Hockey Writers – Los Angeles Kings

On Feb. 13, 2026, Kevin Fiala sustained a lower leg injury while representing Team Switzerland during an Olympic game in Milan, Italy. The 6-foot Swiss native has been crucial in being a top scorer for the Los Angeles Kings and an important playmaker. He was ruled out for the remainder of the 2025-26 season and could potentially miss the 2026 Playoffs. Let’s take a closer look at how his absence has impacted the Kings as they prepare for the postseason.

Fiala’s Season-Ending Injury

For the Kings, the timing of this injury came during a time in which Fiala’s strong performance earlier in the season helped position the Kings for success. Fiala’s presence and commitment were two of the key reasons he worked well with the team. Furthermore, their roster is built around structure and two-way responsibility. With him sidelined, the Kings had to adjust their lineup and rely more on depth scoring.

The Acquisition of Artemi Panarin

Just a week before Fiala’s injury, the Kings acquired Artemi Panarin from the New York Rangers on Feb. 4, 2026. With hopes of boosting the Kings’ offense, Panarin was brought in as another left-wing playmaker. While Panarin and Fiala have similar playing styles, the Swiss native approached the game with an energetic style that relied on speed and effort. Additionally, Panarin thrives on vision and puck control, whereas Fiala’s game is built on pace and energy. The Kings have benefited from Panarin’s playmaking ability, but Fiala’s absence is noticeable.

Not only did Fiala’s season-ending injury affect the Kings, but he was tied along with Adrian Kempe as the team’s top goal scorer (35) in the 2024-25 season. It was a big loss for the team. The offense was not as strong without him, and other players had to step up. His absence left a significant void in the Kings’ lineup as the team prepared for the playoffs. Without one of their efficient playmakers and top scorers, the Kings had to find new ways to stay competitive and create scoring opportunities.

Fiala’s Return Date

As the 2026 Playoffs are here, there is no update on Fiala’s status yet. He is currently considered to be ruled out until the 2026-27 training camp. Without his presence, the Kings had to change directions and rely on their younger talent to rise. A player who comes to mind is Quinton Byfield, who has risen to the challenge and scored three goals in the last two games the Kings played. Another rising talent is Alex Laferriere, who was signed to a three-year, $12.3 million average annual value (AAV) contract last offseason. Just recently, Laferriere passed the 20-goal mark for the 2025-26 season.

What’s Next for Fiala?

Fiala concluded the 2025-26 season with 18 goals and 40 points in 56 games. He brought speed and skill to the lineup each game and took risks in the offensive zone when needed. Fiala could change the momentum of a game quickly, and his scoring ability gave the Kings leverage. Fiala managed to maintain his role as one of the team’s most dynamic offensive threats.

Without his presence, the offense feels limited and the team does not have the same edge as they did before. Fiala’s impact goes beyond just statistics and the scoresheet. He brought energy and confidence to the team. While the Kings have stayed afloat and clinched a playoff berth, the road has not been smooth. As Fiala prepares to return in the 2026-27 season, the Kings look to stay competitive without him and shift their focus to next season. Until then, the Kings must evolve under pressure.