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Kings’ Quinton Byfield Played Through Two Torn Obliques in Playoff Sweep

The 23-year-old is expected to rest before training for a likely move into the Kings’ top-line center role.

Image
Apr 23, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Kings right wing Quinton Byfield (55) is defended by Colorado Avalanche defenseman Devon Toews (7) as he skates to the net in the second period of game three of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Byfield, according to team reporter Zach Dooley on Wednesday, tore his right oblique after the Olympic break and later tore his left once the first injury healed.
  • He played through the second tear for the rest of the regular season and Los Angeles’ four-game loss to Colorado, logging just under 22 minutes a night with two assists and no goals.
  • Despite the injuries, he surged after the Olympics with 13 goals and 19 points over 24 games, which marked some of his best NHL form.
  • Reports indicate he is not expected to need surgery for either oblique tear and will take the early offseason to rest before beginning summer training.
  • With Anze Kopitar set to retire, coverage projects Byfield to center the top line next season, heightening expectations after a 49-point year on a five-year, $31.25 million contract.