Kevin Fiala injury updates: Team Switzerland, L.A Kings forward stretchered off ice in game vs. Canada originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Switzerland faced a tough game overall. Canada beat Switzerland 5–1 in their Men's Olympic hockey preliminary round, and the Swiss also lost one of their key forwards.
Canada controlled the game tempo, outshooting Switzerland 27–16 in the first two periods, earning their second victory of the tournament.
The game took a downturn when Swiss star Kevin Fiala suffered a serious lower-leg injury and was stretchered off the ice with just 2:50 left in the third period, casting a shadow over the event.
The Sporting News has more on Fiala's injury and any updates regarding the Swiss forward.
MORE: Canada moves to 2-0 after cruising past Switzerland
Kevin Fiala injury updates
This section will be updated as more information becomes available.
Feb. 13, 5:45 PM: Fiala was carried off the ice on a stretcher during Switzerland's Olympic game against Canada after seemingly injuring his lower leg. There are no further updates on his status at this time.
What happened to Kevin Fiala
Fiala was engaged in a puck battle along the boards with Canadian forward Tom Wilson. As the two players fell, their legs became entangled, and Wilson appeared to land on Fiala's leg, causing it to twist awkwardly.
Fiala was unable to bear weight on his left leg and appeared visibly distressed, indicating an injury, as he pointed to his skate. After an extended delay, medical personnel placed him on a stretcher and transported him off the ice, while players from both benches acknowledged the incident with stick taps as a gesture of support.
The loss of Fiala, a prominent offensive player for Switzerland, is a significant setback as the team prepares for an important match against Czechia on Feb. 15, which will determine second place in Group A.
Where is Kevin Fiala from?
Fiala is from the lovely city of St. Gallen in Switzerland, where he grew up.
He has Czech roots, with both of his parents being Czech, which adds a rich cultural story.
Fiala has proudly represented Switzerland on the international stage, competing in the World Junior Championships and the IIHF World Championships, where he has earned multiple silver medals, showcasing his talent and dedication.
Kevin Fiala NHL team
Fiala is a forward for the Los Angeles Kings. He is in his fourth season with the team (2025–26) and has a seven-year contract that extends through the 2028–29 season.
Fiala has been an essential offensive contributor for the Kings this season, amassing 18 goals and 22 assists for a total of 40 points across 56 games prior to the NHL's Olympic intermission.
Is Switzerland allowed to replace Kevin Fiala
No, Switzerland is not permitted to substitute Fiala on their 25-man roster. According to the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) tournament regulations, rosters are considered fixed once the competition has commenced.
Teams were authorized to make injury-related replacements solely until February 11, 2026, the initial day of the men's tournament.
The IIHF accommodates injuries by allowing larger rosters (25 players) than those dressed for individual matches (22 skaters and 3 goaltenders).
Switzerland will be obliged to rely on the "extra" skaters already on its roster, such as forwards Ken Jager or Sandro Schmid, to fill Fiala's position.