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Kings Coach Struck by Shattered Glass, Lose OT

4/23/2026

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Summary

Smith Struck

D.J. Smith, Kings head coach, was struck by broken glass in the second period of the April 22, 2026 playoff game against the Colorado Avalanche.
Fans banged the glass after Avalanche goalie Scott Wedgewood’s penalty-shot save, shattering the pane and causing a 19-minute stoppage while workers replaced it.
The Kings lost 2-1 in overtime, falling 2-0 in the series, with game three set for Thursday in Los Angeles.

Summary

Smith Escapes

Plexiglass barrier shattered, sending shards onto interim coach D.J. Smith, who avoided serious injury.
Staff cleared fragments with shovels and buckets and installed a new panel in about 15-20 minutes.
Players from both teams stayed on the ice during cleanup, following league hazard protocol.
Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog said he had never seen such a glass failure.

History

Historical Context

The April 22, 2026, incident during an NHL playoff game, where a plexiglass barrier shattered, echoes safety concerns that prompted significant rule changes in 1992. Following similar events, the NHL has continually prioritized player and fan safety, leading to ongoing discussions about improving arena standards and equipment durability, crucial for the sport's integrity and spectator experience.

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Smith Struck

D.J. Smith, Kings head coach, was struck by broken glass in the second period of the April 22, 2026 playoff game against the Colorado Avalanche.
Fans banged the glass after Avalanche goalie Scott Wedgewood’s penalty-shot save, shattering the pane and causing a 19-minute stoppage while workers replaced it.
The Kings lost 2-1 in overtime, falling 2-0 in the series, with game three set for Thursday in Los Angeles.

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