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Unexpected Goalie Making Late-Season Push for the Vezina Trophy

Originally posted on House of Hockey | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Apr 9, 2025 5:11 PM ET

A name no one thought would be in contention for the Vezina Trophy has emerged, and that is Los Angeles Kings goaltender Darcy Kuemper.

TheScore released their sixth edition of the 2024-25 Vezina Trophy Rankings, which is their monthly recap of the NHL's top-performing goaltenders. With two weeks left in the regular season, the Vezina pursuit has reached its final shape.

Unlike earlier theScore installments showcasing current hot runs, this month's list of theirs represents the entire body of work for each goalie as the season nears its end.

Darcy Kuemper has never made the cut until now

One of the biggest shocks? LA Kings' Darcy Kuemper, who was not ranked earlier, made a stunning entry into the fray. While Logan Thompson's luck has turned as the Capitals have stumbled lately, Kuemper's rise has been unstoppable.

With minimal ice time, he's driven himself into the conversation with a dominant run, winning 10 of his last 15 starts, with a .940 save percentage, and three shutouts.

On the season, he's behind only two goalies in both GSAA and GSAx, and second in goals against average among goalies with 40 games played or more.

Record GAA SV% GSAA GSAx
28-11-7 2.03 .922 24.06 29.32

There was more doubt when the Kings pursued Kuemper following two disappointing seasons with the Capitals. But the gamble is paying off. If this Kuemper appears during the playoffs, Los Angeles could be going for a very long playoff run.

With the season soon wrapping up, supporters can't wait until June's ceremony to find out who the Vezina winner will be.

This article first appeared on House of Hockey and was syndicated with permission.

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