Prior to the Tampa Bay Lightning’s game against the Detroit Red Wings, backup goaltender Kyle Konin got himself into a humorous father-son situation on April Fools’ Day.
Due to the regular backup Jonas Johansson’s absence from a lower-body injury, Konin was potentially set to suit up for the match. When he shared this news with his family group chat, his father, with a hint of skepticism, advised him to verify that it wasn’t an April Fools’ prank.
A tweet by Chris Krenn, the TBLightning Writer, captured this amusing interaction. Krenn quoted Konin as saying, “With Jonas Johansson day-to-day with a lower-body injury, it sounds like there’s a chance that EBUG Kyle Konin will dress as the #Bolts backup goaltender tonight. Said he texted his family group chat and his dad told him to make sure it’s not an April Fools joke.”
The response from Kyle Konin’s father added a playful element to what could have been a significant moment for the aspiring goalie.
The Lightning confirmed Johansson’s absence, with head coach Jon Cooper ensuring reporters that the injury wouldn’t have lasting effects on the goaltender. With Johansson sidelined, the team turned to Konin, a former goaltender at Grand Valley State University who has served as a standby emergency backup in Tampa for several years.
Originally from Rhode Island and now residing in St. Petersburg, Kyle Konin had previously stepped in as an emergency backup for the St. Louis Blues in a game against the Lightning in 2021. The opportunity against the Red Wings provided another chance for Konin to potentially participate in an NHL capacity, albeit in a backup role.
Leafs’ Playoff Berth Hinges on Lightning’s Success with Kyle Konin
In the 2023–24 NHL season, on April Fools’ Day, the Toronto Maple Leafs had an opportunity to secure a playoff spot. This can be achieved by defeating the Florida Panthers, contingent on other teams’ results.
To confirm their playoff spot, the Leafs must win in regulation and rely on a Tampa Bay Lightning victory against the Detroit Red Wings, alongside any outcome except an Islanders win in overtime or shootout against the Philadelphia Flyers. Alternatively, winning in overtime or shootout necessitates the same results for the Red Wings and Islanders game.
Seven teams have already secured playoff berths, with Toronto aiming to become the second Canadian team after the Vancouver Canucks. With nine games remaining, the Leafs are on the verge of clinching a playoff spot, requiring just three more points.
The Lightning will face the Detroit Red Wings at Amalie Arena in Tampa on Monday at 7:00 p.m. ET.