3 things Los Angeles Kings fans can expect after trading for Joonas Korpisalo

Chicago Blackhawks v Columbus Blue Jackets
Joonas Korpisalo #70 of the Columbus Blue Jackets is spotlit prior to the start of the game against the Chicago Blackhawks at Nationwide Arena on January 11, 2022 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images)

The Los Angeles Kings acquired Finnish goaltender Joonas Korpisalo and Russian defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov in a trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets on March 2.

Joonas Korpisalo will have to fill the shoes of two-time Stanley Cup-winning netminder Jonathan Quick, who the Kings traded to the Blue Jackets in exchange for the two players.

But how will the Kings benefit from the Korpisalo trade? Here are three ways:

#1 Goaltending boost

Carolina Hurricanes v Columbus Blue Jackets
Carolina Hurricanes v Columbus Blue Jackets

Los Angeles Kings fans can expect a significant boost in goaltending with the addition of Korpisalo. He has proven to be a reliable netminder in the NHL, with a career save percentage of .909 and a goals-against average of 2.83.

Korpisalo has also shown his ability to steal games for his team, making highlight-reel saves and keeping them in games when they are struggling. With the Los Angeles Kings struggling to find consistency in the net in recent years, Korpisalo's addition should give fans hope that the team's goaltending situation is in good hands.


#2 New dynamic in the net

Arizona Coyotes v Columbus Blue Jackets
Arizona Coyotes v Columbus Blue Jackets

Los Angeles Kings fans can expect a new dynamic in the net with Korpisalo's arrival. The Kings have had a revolving door in the net over the past few seasons, with no clear starter emerging.

While Phoenix Copley has been a breakout star for LA this year, Korpisalo brings consistency and stability to the position, which should benefit the team. He also has a different playing style than the team's current goalies, which will force the Kings' coaching staff to adjust their game plan accordingly. This could result in a more structured defensive system that utilizes Korpisalo's strengths.


#3 A talent for the future

St Louis Blues v Los Angeles Kings
St Louis Blues v Los Angeles Kings

Finally, Los Angeles Kings fans can expect an exciting opportunity for Korpisalo himself. The 28-year-old goaltender has been stuck behind Elvis Merzlikins in Columbus for the past few seasons, and his trade to Los Angeles gives him a chance to take a crack at becoming a starting goaltender in the NHL.

Looking long-term, Korpisalo will likely get more playing time in Los Angeles than in Columbus, allowing him to continue developing his game and take his play to the next level. This should excite Kings fans, as they can watch a talented young goaltender grow and develop with their team.


While it remains to be seen how Joonas Korpisalo will perform in Los Angeles alongside Phoenix Copley, his track record in Columbus and his growth potential make him an exciting addition to the team.

Kings fans should be optimistic about the future of their goaltending situation with Korpisalo between the pipes.

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Edited by R. Elahi
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