In a bold move to solidify their goaltending situation, the Colorado Avalanche have brought back a familiar face—Darcy Kuemper. The veteran netminder, who backstopped the team to a Stanley Cup title in 2022, is returning to Denver after a stellar season with the Los Angeles Kings.
The Avalanche announced Saturday that they have acquired Kuemper in a trade with L.A., sending a 2025 second-round pick and goaltender prospect Ivan Zhigalov to the Kings in exchange. Kuemper, 35, is under contract for one more season and will immediately slot into the starting role.
“This is home,” Kuemper said in his re-introductory press conference. “Winning the Cup here was the highlight of my career, and I’ve always hoped I’d get the chance to wear the Avalanche jersey again.”
Kuemper is coming off one of the best seasons of his career, posting a 31-11-3 record with a .922 save percentage and a 2.02 goals-against average. His performance made him a finalist for the Vezina Trophy and proved he still has plenty left in the tank.
For the Avalanche, this move comes at a critical time. After three consecutive seasons of playoff disappointment, the team is clearly in win-now mode. Goaltending inconsistencies have plagued the roster since Kuemper’s departure in 2022, and his return could finally bring the stability the Avs have been missing between the pipes.
“Darcy gives us a proven presence in goal,” said GM Chris MacFarland. “He knows our system, he’s a leader in the locker room, and he’s still playing elite-level hockey. We’re thrilled to bring him back.”
Fans welcomed the news with excitement, many still remembering Kuemper’s clutch saves during the 2022 Stanley Cup run. With a veteran roster still hungry for another title, the return of their championship goalie could be the missing piece.
The Avalanche now turn their attention to the rest of the offseason, with expectations once again sky-high.
