Poolers who have been waiting on Kevin Fiala can finally put him back in their lineup: the Kings forward makes his season debut tonight against the 
New York Islanders, after more than nine months away from the game.
A broken leg at the Olympics
Fiala broke his left leg in several places on February 13, while playing for Switzerland at the Milan Cortina Olympics. He was taken off the ice on a stretcher after a collision with Canada's Tom Wilson, then had surgery. The injury cost him the rest of the 2025-26 season, and a follow-up procedure in September kept him out of training camp and the start of this season.
A timely return for Los Angeles
The 30-year-old had 40 points in 56 games last season, with 18 goals and 22 assists. He is expected to skate on the second line, next to Quinton Byfield and Mats Zuccarello, according to NHL.com. The Kings are struggling to score, and Fiala's return comes at a good time for a team looking for answers on offense.
What it means for your pool
Fiala is an offensive producer who can help in several categories, from goals to power-play points. Put him back in your lineup tonight, but keep expectations reasonable for his first few games: after nine months away, he will need a few games to find his timing and his chemistry with his linemates.
Sources
The facts in this article come from TVA Sports on X, NHL.com, TSN, Pro Hockey Rumors and Swiss Hockey News.
