Kuemper likely to start vs. Knights after taking stick through mask

Darcy Kuemper has avoided a major injury scare.

The Arizona Coyotes goaltender is expected to start Thursday night against the Vegas Golden Knights, his club confirmed pregame.

The netminder was forced to leave Tuesday's contest against the Los Angeles Kings early in the third period after taking a stick through his mask.

Trevor Lewis scored, but prayers up for Darcy Kuemper who took a stick into the mask TM pic.twitter.com/SpJncNVnca

- FOX Sports West (@FoxSportsWest) April 3, 2019

Kuemper has made 21 consecutive starts for the Coyotes and has been the biggest reason for the team's surprising late-season playoff push.

The 28-year-old has performed admirably since stepping in as the starter in place of the injured Antti Raanta, posting a .924 save percentage through 54 games and a stellar .941 mark during his 21-game run.

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