Darcy Kuemper will make his Capitals debut Wednesday as he leads Washington between the pipes at home against Boston. Fresh off a Stanley Cup victory in 2021-22, Kuemper joins Washington after finishing fourth in league Wins (37), fifth in SV% (.921), 11th in GAA (2.54) and fourth in Shutouts (5).
Kuemper left Game 1 with an upper-body injury and did not return. He was not on the ice for Thursday's morning skate and head coach Jared Bednar officially ruled him out. Pavel Francouz will start Game 2 vs. the Oilers.
Kuemper left Game 1 shortly after taking a shot off the mask and did not return. When head coach Jared Bednar was asked about Kuemper's availability for Game 2, he said "we'll see." Pavel Francouz, who allowed three goals in relief, will start if Kuemper can't play.
Kuemper missed Game 4 vs. the Predators with an eye injury but has been cleared for Game 1 and will most likely start vs. the Blues. Kuemper was 2-0-0 with a 1.63 GAA and .934 SV% in Round 1.
Kuemper has swelling around his eye and will not be available for Game 4 in Nashville. Pavel Francouz will start in his place and Justus Annunen will serve as his backup. Kuemper is day-to-day and should be ready if there's a Game 5.
