The Los Angeles Kings added to their prospect pool by selecting Finnish goaltender Petteri Rimpinen with the 152nd overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Rimpinen, born on April 25, 2006, is a 6-foot-0, 176-pound, left-catching goalie.

Rimpinen's selection came as a bit of a surprise, as the Kings weren't necessarily looking for a goalie in the draft. Mark Yannetti, the Kings' SVP of Scouting, noted that they had passed on Rimpinen twice already due to their existing goalie situation. However, Rimpinen's performance in the Finnish Liiga and at the World Junior Championship was too impressive to ignore.

During the 2024-25 season, Rimpinen played 40 games for Kiekko-Espoo in the Liiga, posting a 16-9-14 record with a .912 save percentage, a 2.35 goals-against average, and two shutouts. He also backstopped Finland to a silver medal at the World Juniors. His performance at the World Juniors earned him recognition as the tournament's best goaltender and a spot on the All-Star team. Impressively, Rimpinen claimed the No. 1 job in Liiga at 19, which is considered a rare achievement.

Scouting reports paint Rimpinen as a hyper-athletic and aggressive goaltender. He is known for his excellent lateral quickness, explosive edgework, and consistent puck-tracking ability. Rimpinen regularly challenges shooters at the top of his crease, utilizing powerful pushes and sharp reactions. He also demonstrates good positioning and an aptitude for reading the play at high speeds.

While Rimpinen's size might be considered below the NHL average, his competitive and mature style of play compensates for it. Some scouts have drawn comparisons between Rimpinen and fellow Finnish goalie Juuse Saros, noting similarities in their athleticism and play reading abilities. Rimpinen relies more on his athleticism than his pure dynamic skating. However, Rimpinen distinguishes himself with his poise and control. He has shown the ability to handle a heavy workload and perform at an elite level in professional hockey.

Since being drafted, Rimpinen participated in the LA Kings Development Camp in late June and early July, providing the Kings organization with a first-hand look at their new prospect. He also played in the World Junior Summer Showcase in late July and early August, where he started two games and won both for Finland. He had 46 saves on 50 shots, demonstrating composure.

Looking ahead, the key for Rimpinen will be how his technical foundation and decision-making translate to the North American ice and the eventual runway to the Ontario Reign.