1 reply to this topic

[Duckbill]

As much as I dislike the Kings I feel I can sympathize with their current situation. When Ilya and Jiggy went down and then we subsequently lost Leighton to Nashville, it was a definitely sickening feeling. I don't fault Nashville, but the fact that we couldn't bring up who we felt was our #3 goaltender to replace our pair of injured goalies really stunk.

Now the Kings find themselves in that situation as Garon is hurt. Because of this, they have to split time between Beachball Cloutier and callup Brust, instead of the guy who could very well be the Kings second best goalie, LaBarbera. Instead they'll be forced to rely on Cloutier and Brust.

When it comes to replacing injured goaltenders, a team should not be forced to have a callup goalie clear waivers and be put on edge waiting if said goalie can clear in time for when they are needed. It is impractical to carry three goalies on an NHL roster at a time, and in today's NHL teams need two reliable goaltenders every game. The NHL needs to step up and do something to protect teams in this situation. I would propose that there be a injury call up waiver exemption for emergency goaltending situations, or that in these situations, the team who loses the goalie not be stuck with half of the player's salary.

Thoughts? Know of any other times this or a similar situation have occurred?

[Aeryn]

If Garon could be back in a few days, then risking LaBarbera probably isn't worth it. *cough* Leighton *cough*

But if he's going to be out for a while then why NOT recall LaBarbera. Yes, it's a risk but what's the point in having a #3 goalie if you're too scared to bring him up to play?

Waivers suck when you're on the losing end. But I understand why they are in place and agree with it. Socking away vets in the AHL for a rainy day isn't fair to the players and I think it does a disservice to the league(s) and the game.