Los Angeles Kings' Goalie Rotation Needs Rotating

New Los Angeles Kings coach Terry Murray has finally allowed his second string goaltender, Eric Ersberg, the chance to see action in the third period of the last game against Colorado. Hurray!

Facing only two shots, Ersberg did not have much opportunity to distinguish himself. He did not allow any goals on the two shots as the Kings fell to the Avalanche 4-3.

Having been based on the East Coast, it is a reasonable question to ask if Murray has a good understanding of the travel West Coast teams must deal with. Getting fresh goaltenders on the ice becomes more imperative. Having one goalie play 14 out of the first 15 periods is not the way to achieve that goal.

Given the organizations' best netminders are still in the minors as to not be overly abused by a young defense, LaBarbara and Ersberg are in the position of minding the store until Bernier and Quick are ready for prime time action.

Ersberg has the potential to be a starting goalie, yet has been overlooked so far. In 14 games last season, Eric pitched two shutouts and posted a goals against average of 2.48, quite impressive numbers given the standard of defensive play in front of him.

LaBarbara is a backup goalie masquerading as a starter. Over 84 career games, he has posted two goose eggs and has a GAA of 3.04. He has the same amount of shutouts in 70 more games along with a half a goal higher average. Hopefully Jason will not be exposed too much before the Kings can trade him to bolster the defense corps.

LaBarbara has both a size and weight advantage over Ersberg.  Jason is 6'3" and 225 lbs., while Eric is 6'0" and 168 lbs. according to the Kings website. More of the net is covered by LaBaraba while Ersberg is quicker and more agile. He also does not carry the injury history that cost LaBarbara the starting spot last year, the first Jason won in the NHL.

If Murray gives Ersberg more of an opportunity by rotating his goalies, there is a good chance he may decide to reconsider which netminder is deserving of number one status.

Postscript:

After publishing this column, later that day the Kings played at the St. Louis Blues. Kings coach Terry Murray went back to Jason LaBarbara who posted his first shutout of the season.  While not trying to take credit for inspiring Mr. LaBarbara, I will point out how it is very interesting, very interesting indeed.