News: Ersburg has cleared waivers, and the Kings are in the process of terminating his contract, reports LA Kings Insider.
Analysis: Ersberg left the Kings' AHL affiliate without permission, allowing them the opportunity to end their financial commitment. Ersberg will look to join a KHL team.
Ersberg A Monarch After Clearing Waivers From Kings
News: Ersberg cleared waivers and was reassigned to Manchester of the AHL.
Analysis: He'll either need an injury at the NHL level or open some eyes down there with his play to get picked up by another team to have any fantasy impact at this point.
News: Ersberg has been placed on waivers by the Kings.
Analysis: That's hardly a surprise after the team announced that Jonathan Bernier had won the backup goalie battle. We'll see if he lands with another NHL team before totally writing him off for this year.
Ersberg Future Cloudy After Losing Backup Battle For Kings
News: Ersberg failed to win the backup duties for the Kings, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis: His future is a little cloudy right now as he could return to Sweden or perhaps land with another NHL team. In any event, Jonathan Bernier will open the season as the Kings' backup goaltender to Jonathan Quick.
News: Ersberg (hand) returned to practice Saturday, LAKingsInsider.com reports.
Analysis: Ersberg is starting to slide behind Jonathan Bernier in the battle for backup duties, but he can now work at making his own mark in the competition now that he's healthy.
News: Ersberg (hand) still has yet to resume practicing.
Analysis: Meanwhile, Jonathan Bernier has turned in two very solid performances in training camp in the battle for the backup duties in LA. Ersberg needs to get back healthy soon if he doesn't want to risk falling too far behind.
Kings' Ersberg Exhibition Debut Delayed by Hand Injury
News: Ersberg (hand) will not play Wednesday as initially expected, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis: The Kings are hopeful with an extra day of treatment that he'll be back on the ice Thursday. "Everything is fine. We had it X-rayed and we had it looked at carefully by the doctors. Ersberg will stay back and we're hoping, with a day of treatment, that he's able to get back, and we'll take a look at it for the Phoenix game at home [Thursday]," head coach Terry Murray said. Ersberg is competing with Jonathan Bernier for the backup duties in training camp.
News: Ersberg left practice Monday with a hand injury, the LA Times reports.
Analysis: Ersberg initially bruised his glove hand Sunday before leaving Monday's practice. X-Rays were negative and Ersberg is scheduled to start Wednesday's exhibition game. He'll need a strong camp to beat out Jonathan Bernier for the backup goaltending duties for the Kings.
News: Kings goalie Erik Ersberg had 31 saves filling in for Jonathan Quick during a 2-1 overtime win against the Avalanche on Sunday. Ryan Stoa scored his second goal of the season midway through the first period, slipping a puck through the pads of Ersberg. It would be the only mistake Ersberg would make all day. He made 24 saves over the final two periods and overtime.
Analysis: Ersberg won his final two appearances of the season to finish 4-3-2 with a 2.40 GAA and .906 save percentage. He appeared in only 11 games as Quick has a breakout season. Ersberg slipped into coach Terry Murray's doghouse in 2009-10 and it will be interesting to see if he returns in 2010-11, with one year left on his contract. Prospect Jonathan Bernier looks ready for a promotion to the NHL, so Ersberg might be let go. Either way, we don't expect him to be a starter next season, so Ersberg won't have much Fantasy appeal. The Kings TG will be no worse than a No. 2 option on Draft Day.
News: Usually using two goalies in a game doesn't spell success, but the Kings hit the jackpot during Tuesday's 5-4 shootout win against the Ducks. After Jonathan Quick failed to turn in a solid performance, Erik Ersberg took over and guided Los Angeles to a comeback win. The Kings pulled Quick after the franchise's single-season wins leader yielded three goals on eight shots in the first 22:01. Ersberg took over despite a three-goal deficit. Ersberg made 12 saves in relief for the Kings and allowed only one goal in the shootout.
Analysis: Ersberg finally got a chance to showcase his skills after sitting on the bench for most of the second half. Unfortunately, the Kings' coaching staff still backs Quick and Ersberg remains in a backup role. He has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg, who was dealing with a back injury, was healthy enough to dress for Saturday's shootout loss to the Ducks.
Analysis: Ersberg isn't likely to get much action the rest of the way as the Kings try to get No. 1 Jonathan Quick out of his funk before the playoffs start. Continue to ignore Ersberg in seasonal formats.
News: Kings backup netminder Erik Ersberg was sidelined for a third straight game on Thursday against the Canucks with a back injury.
Analysis: Ersberg remains out of action since emergency call-up Jonathan Bernier has been outstanding since his recall. Ersberg could remain in the press box until Los Angeles has to absolutely send Bernier back to the minors. It's not like it matters much in Fantasy since Ersberg doesn't play much and hardly makes a dent in Fantasy leagues.
News: Kings backup netminder Erik Ersberg was sidelined for a second straight game on Tuesday against the Predators with a back injury.
Analysis: Ersberg should resume his backup duties in the near future, but he is not happy with his current situation since he doesn't play much behind Jonathan Quick. Ersberg has minimal Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Kings backup goalie Erik Ersberg was scratched on Monday against the Wild because of a back injury. He is also expected to sit out Tuesday against the Predators as emergency call-up Jonathan Bernier is expected to get the start. "(Bernier) will be playing in the game in Nashville (Tuesday)," coach Terry Murray told NHL.com. "That's a decision we made right after the Dallas game. We got a report that Ersberg had strained his back. Our reaction is a process, and it's a process that we always have to go through with any call-up. It started right after the Dallas game."
Analysis: Ersberg was making progress on Monday and skated for a bit, but since the decision was already made over the weekend regarding Bernier, Murray didn't want to change his mind. Ersberg should resume his backup duties in the near future, but he is not happy with his current situation since he doesn't play much behind Jonathan Quick. Ersberg has minimal Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg replaced Jonathan Quick in the first period of Wednesday's game against the Avalanche. It was his first playing time since February 11. Ersberg made 13 saves, but Los Angeles fell in a shootout 4-3.
Analysis: Ersberg performed admirably in relief on Wednesday, but this is Quick's team. Ersberg will continue to see sparse playing time, giving him little if any Fantasy value outside of a handcuff for Quick. The Kings TG is a high-end option.
News:Lubomir Visnovsky scored in the 10th round of a shootout, lifting the Oilers to a 3-2 win over goalie Erik Ersberg and the Kings on Thursday. Ersberg fell into a 2-0 hole in regulation before Los Angeles tied the game with 4:48 remaining. Ersberg held the 1-0 advantage in the shootout before Shawn Horcoff tied it in the third round. Ersberg then had leads in the seventh and ninth rounds before allowing the equalizer both times. He finally fell in the 10th round as Lubomir Visnovsky got the winner. Ersberg had 21 saves in regulation.
Analysis: Kings starter Jonathan Quick did not play because of flu-like symptoms, so Ersberg got his sixth start of the season. He had plenty of chances to pull out the W in the shootout, but couldn't prevail in the clutch. Ersberg isn't expected to start much when Quick is healthy, so he continues to have marginal Fantasy appeal. The Kings TG is a high-end option.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Kings G Jonathan Quick has flu-like symptoms and will not play Thursday vs. the Oilers. Erik Ersberg will take his spot.
Analysis: Quick, who leads the NHL with 34 wins, has been an absolute Fantasy stud so far this season. He plays almost every night when healthy, and is helping the Kings stay in the thick of the Western Conference playoff race. This illness shouldn't stop him from representing the USA in the Olympics, and he will remain a must-start Fantasy goalie come March. Ersberg isn't worth owning except as a handcuff to Quick in the deepest of leagues, while the Kings TG is a No. 1 option.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg made 34 saves during a 2-1 loss to the Sharks on Monday. Ersberg recovered from a shaky beginning to just his second start since Dec. 9 while filling in for U.S. Olympic team goalie Jonathan Quick, who was pulled from the Kings' 4-3 loss to St. Louis on Saturday night. Less than four minutes in, Dan Boyle's shot from the point slipped between several players and through Ersberg's legs for the Canadian Olympian's ninth goal of another strong season. Dany Heatley then scored during a lengthy man-advantage early in the second period, batting his own rebound out of mid-air for the 26th goal of his debut season with San Jose. The star forward connected with the puck at about Ersberg's mask level, just low enough to avoid a high-sticking call. Ersberg didn't allow a goal the rest of the way but Los Angeles couldn't rally against Evgeni Nabokov.
Analysis: Ersberg did pretty well against a top contender on Monday, but coach Terry Murray is still going to turn to Jonathan Quick on a regular basis. Ersberg is going to continue to be a seldom-used backup and have minimal Fantasy appeal. The Kings TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg stopped all nine shots he faced Saturday after replacing Jonathan Quick during the third period of a 4-3 loss to the Blues.
Analysis: We're not quite sure if Quick was pulled for ineffectiveness or if he got hurt, so keep an eye on this situation heading into Week 15 (Jan. 11-17). If Quick is fine, Ersberg is going to continue to be a seldom-used backup and have minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg made 19 saves during a 2-1 loss to the Flames on Wednesday. Rene Bourque opened the scoring for Calgary at 6:21 of the first period, and Scott Parse tied it 15 seconds into the second. Bourque then helped set up Craig Conroy's go-ahead goal at 2:48 of the second period. Conroy's game winner came as Ersberg misplayed the puck behind the net and Calgary got it to Conroy for a wide-open score.
Analysis: Ersberg lost for the first time since Oct. 14. However, it was only his fifth appearance of the season. Ersberg hasn't won the trust of coach Terry Murray and continues to watch Jonathan Quick suit up on most nights. Until something dramatic happens with Quick, then Ersberg is going to be a seldom-used backup and have minimal Fantasy appeal. The Kings TG is more of a high-end No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg made 30 saves during Wednesday's 5-4 overtime victory to earn his second win of the season in his first start since beating Carolina on Nov. 11. Manny Malhotra tied the game for the Sharks and rallied San Jose from a two-goal deficit when he beat Ersberg with a wrist shot for his seventh goal of the season with 7:41 remaining in regulation. Dustin Brown then scored 1:16 into overtime and the Kings overcame a blown third-period lead to beat San Jose.
Analysis: Ersberg hasn't gotten off the bench much in 2009-10 because head coach Terry Murray doesn't have a lot of trust in the Swedish netminder. How can he when he has allowed four goals in three of his four appearances. Until something dramatic happens with Jonathan Quick, then Ersberg is going to be a seldom-used backup and have minimal Fantasy appeal. The Kings TG is more of a high-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie.
News: Kings G Jonathan Quick was pulled during a second-period meltdown Friday against the Thrashers. The game was scoreless until Evander Kane scored 10:22 into the second. Atlanta scored two mores time in the next four minutes, prompting coach Terry Murray to pull Quick in favor of Erik Ersberg. Quick dropped to 10-6-2 after stopping 11 of 14 shots. Ersberg made three saves against seven shots as Los Angeles ended up losing 7-0.
Analysis: Ersberg pretty much undid all the good he did during Wednesday's win over Carolina with his poor relief outing on Friday. Murray's biggest hurdle with Ersberg has been trusting him in net and it seems the Swedish goalie still has some work left. Ersberg has minimal Fantasy appeal until further notice.
News: Kings backup goalie Erik Ersberg had 22 saves in his second start and first appearance in nearly a month for the Kings during a 5-2 win on Wednesday against the Kings. Ersberg never trailed in the game, but he blew a two-goal deficit before Los Angeles pulled away in the third. "I played one game all season -- so it was easy to keep track," Ersberg said with a smile. "I don't count more backwards than that."
Analysis: Ersberg has spent so much time on the bench since coach Terry Murray hasn't been very confident in his play. He might have given his coach second thoughts on Wednesday, but Ersberg still isn't close to dethroning Jonathan Quick in net. Ersberg has minimal Fantasy appeal until further notice. The Kings TG is a No. 2 option.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg, making his first start of the season in relief of No. 1 goalie Jonathan Quick, stopped 17 shots during a 4-2 loss to the Rangers on Wednesday. Ersberg never led in the game and allowed a pair of power-play goals in the first period. Marian Gaborik iced the game with his sixth goal of the season past Ersberg 4:22 into the third.
Analysis: Had Ersberg not been bothered by a groin injury last season, he likely would have emerged as Los Angeles' starting goalie. But his injury problems opened the door for Quick, who is now the Kings' unquestioned starter. Until that changes, Ersberg has low-end Fantasy appeal. The Kings TG is a viable No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg allowed four goals and made 34 saves in Monday's 4-1 loss to the Flames. It was his first start since March 16 as Jonathan Quick has been getting the bulk of the starts for the Kings. His record fell to 8-11-5 with the loss.
Analysis: Erberg hasn't won a game since it was 2008, showing you how useful he currently is in Fantasy. Continue ignoring him in all Fantasy leagues as anything other than a No. 3 option. The Kings TG on the other hand is a low-end No. 2 option with Quick in net.
News:Ryan Jones scored the go-ahead goal with 2:18 remaining past Erik Ersberg, leading the Nashville Predators to a 4-3 victory over the Los Angeles Kings on Monday night. On the winning goal, Predators defenseman Dan Hamhuis barely kept the puck inside the Kings blue line before taking a slap shot that Jones tipped in the low slot. Ersberg couldn't control the rebound and went sprawling across the crease as Jones backhanded his seventh goal under Ersberg's flailing arm. Ersberg made 26 saves in the loss.
Analysis: Ersberg still hasn't won a game since Dec. 13 and is winless in his last 10 outings. He continues to battle at times, but just can't get the lucky bounces. His season has really gotten off track due to injury and that has allowed Jonathan Quick to swoop in and take the starting job. Ersberg isn't winning over coach Terry Murray at this time and has low-end Fantasy appeal. The Kings TG is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Los Angeles goalie Erik Ersberg was absolutely fantastic during regulation and overtime on Saturday against the Sharks. Ersberg allowed only one goal against a barrage of shots and stopped 38 of them. The game went into a shootout, however, where Ersberg could not handle shots from Joe Pavelski and Jonathan Cheechoo as the Sharks won 2-1.
Analysis: Ersberg's record in overtime games falls to 8-9-5 and he hasn't given the Kings a game in the win column since mid December. His season has really gotten off track due to injury and that has allowed Jonathan Quick to swoop in and take the starting job. Ersberg isn't winning over coach Terry Murray at this time and has low-end Fantasy appeal. The Kings TG is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Kings goalie Jonathan Quick replaced an ineffective Erik Ersberg after two periods Thursday and ended up with a victory as Los Angeles rallied for a 5-4 overtime win. Ersberg blanked the Stars on six shots in the first period before giving up four goals on 13 shots in the second. He was replaced by Quick to begin the third after making 15 saves. Quick trailed 4-2 with less than four minutes to play, but Los Angles scored twice, which included the game-tying goal from Anze Kopitar with 14 seconds left. Michal Handzus scored his third goal of the game at 1:31 of overtime to cap the comeback. Quick made four saves in the easy relief win.
Analysis: Ersberg remains winless in his last eight outings dating back to mid-December. His season has really gotten off track due to injury and that has allowed Quick to swoop in and take the starting job. Ersberg isn't winning over coach Terry Murray at this time and has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: The Kings have signed G Erik Ersberg to a two-year contract extension worth $750,000 a season.
Analysis: Ersberg hasn't won for the Kings since Dec. 13 against Minnesota, but he has clearly done enough this season to cement himself a spot in Los Angeles, even if might be as a backup to Jonathan Quick. Ersberg is only worth using as a flier at this point while the Kings TG can be used as a low-end No. 2 option.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg gave up only one goal and made 18 saves but ended up taking a 2-0 loss to the Flyers on Wednesday. The lone goal scored when Joffrey Lupul's shot in front of Ersberg appeared to bounce of the goalie's shoulder, hit the post and skid out toward Carter. Two defenseman and Lupul were in the crease, and Jeff Carter found a puck-sized hole between the four of them. With the power-play goal, he snapped a tie with New Jersey's Zach Parise for second place in the NHL goal race -- eight behind Washington's Alex Ovechkin.
Analysis: Ersberg hasn't won for the Kings since Dec. 13 against Minnesota. He is clearly out of favor and despite a solid performance, he won't be overtaking Jonathan Quick as the starter in L.A. Ersberg is only worth using as a flier at this point while the Kings TG can be used as a low-end No. 2 option.
News: Kings goalie Erik Ersberg made 36 saves during a 4-2 loss to the Sharks Thursday. Los Angeles never led in the game, but was tied at 2 before San Jose scored twice during a three-minute period in the second to take the lead for good. Ersberg is winless in his last five outings (0-3-2).
Analysis: Ersberg got a start Thursday after making a solid relief effort Monday against the Thrashers, but coach Terry Murray still likes Jonathan Quick as his top goalie. Ersberg is best utilized in Fantasy leagues that use average points per game. The Kings TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg had a solid relief appearance Monday against the Thrashers in place of Jonathan Quick, but it wasn't enough as Erik Christensen's winner in the fourth round of the shootout sealed the 7-6 win for Atlanta. Quick started the game but only lasted 7:41 as he surrendered three goals on seven shots and trailed 3-0. Los Angeles would trail by three goals three times, including 6-3 in the third period. But then Los Angeles scored the final three goals of the game, including with five seconds left, to send the game into overtime. Ersberg allowed Slava Kozlov to tie the shootout at 1 before Christensen sank the game winner two shooters later. Ersberg made 17 saves in the relief loss.
Analysis: Ersberg hasn't won a game since Dec. 13 and has made just four appearances since January as he has battled injury and has watched from the bench as Quick has shined in net. It's likely going to take more than one bad start for coach Terry Murray to lose faith in Quick, but Ersberg is still around just in case. Ersberg is best utilized in Fantasy leagues that use average points per game when healthy.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg has recovered from a lower-body injury and has been taken off IR. However, he served as Jonathan Quick's backup Thursday against the Blackhawks.
Analysis: Ersberg hasn't been very healthy over the last two months and it has cost him a chance to entrench himself as the Kings' top goalie. He might have to fight for PT with Quick down the stretch, so look to Ersberg as a low-end Fantasy option.
News: The Los Angeles Daily News reports Kings coach Terry Murray said Thursday that goalie goalie Erik Ersberg (lower body) is "much improved," but didn't say if the injured goalie would resume practice Monday. Murray added that Ersberg has been working out using a slideboard, which would suggest he has a knee injury.
Analysis: Ersberg was on IR earlier this season with a groin injury and just isn't doing a great job keeping his lower body healthy. He will continue to share starts in net with Jonathan Quick until Murray is ready to choose a starter. Ersberg is best utilized in Fantasy leagues that use average points per game when healthy. The Kings TG is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg (lower body) will not take part in the YoungStars Game at the All-Star Weekend. Los Angeles has placed the second-year guy on injured reserve.
Analysis: Ersberg last won a game on Dec. 13, so it's not like his Fantasy owners are going to miss his production while he's out until at least Fantasy Week 18 (Feb. 2-8). He remains just a low-end Fantasy option in deeper Fantasy formats, while the Kings TG remains barely a No. 2 choice at best.
News: The L.A. Daily News reports that Kings G Erik Ersberg has a lower-body injury and will miss at least Los Angeles' two games before the All-Star break. He suffered the injury during a shootout Saturday. Jonathan Quick will start in his place.
Analysis: Ersberg last won a game on Dec. 13, so it's not like his Fantasy owners are going to miss his production while he's out. He remains just a low-end Fantasy option in deeper Fantasy formats, while the Kings TG remains barely a No. 2 choice at best.
News:The Sports Xchange reports after a handful of recent eyebrow-raising efforts, the Kings finally got a good game in goal as Erik Ersberg stopped 32 of 34 shots and held up well against some significant pressure in the second half of the game Saturday against the Stars. Ersberg, a second-year goalie who has been splitting time with rookie Jonathan Quick, was coming off what was arguably his worst start of the season, when he allowed three goals in 26 minutes and got pulled in a loss to Tampa Bay Monday. The Kings face back-to-back games this week against Minnesota (Tuesday) and Colorado (Wednesday), and Ersberg and Quick are expected to split the games.
Analysis: Coach Terry Murray has been pretty much splitting starts over the last few weeks between the two goalies as he tries to gauge who his starter might be in the second half. Neither goalie really separated himself, so the tandem could continue into February. Either way, both Ersberg and Quick are low-end Fantasy options. The Kings TG is at best a No. 2 option.
News: Kings goalie Erik Ersberg allowed two goals in regulation Saturday afternoon in Dallas, but took the loss in the eventual shootout. He has not won a game in four contests.
Analysis: Ersberg had a good game on Saturday, but he continues to have tough luck. He has not allowed more than three goals in seven games. He is still splitting time with Jonathan Quick, but the Kings hope to have a definitive goalie soon. Treat Ersberg as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Kings TG is at best a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg couldn't figure out the Lightning Monday and was pulled in the second period of a 3-1 loss. Ersberg made just four saves on seven shots before getting run from the game after Vincent Lecavalier's goal 5:48 into the second frame. Jonathan Quick came onto replace Ersberg and stopped all 15 shots he faced.
Analysis: Ersberg can't afford to have too many bad nights since he is battling Quick for the starting job in Los Angeles. Right now the duo is sharing time, but coach Terry Murray hopes to choose one guy by the All-Star break (Jan. 24-25). Treat Ersberg as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Kings TG is at best a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg stopped 23 shots during a 3-1 loss to the Ducks Tuesday. He never led in the game and allowed two power-play scores before Rob Niedermayer iced the game with an empty-net goal. Ersberg made his first start since Dec. 15 because of a groin injury.
Analysis: Despite the loss, Ersberg did quite well against a top team like Anaheim. He has been a solid goalie for Los Angeles this season, but is expected to share time in net the next few weeks with Jonathan Quick. Until one of them emerges as the top goalie, treat Ersberg as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Kings TG is at best a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: For better or worse, there's now nothing standing in the way of Kings goalies Erik Ersberg and Jonathan Quick except each other. Ersberg no longer has to split time with Jason LaBarbera, and Quick no longer has the shadow of Jonathan Bernier. The Kings traded LaBarbera, whom they had anointed as their No. 1 goalie in training camp, to Vancouver for a seventh-round draft pick last week, leaving Ersberg and Quick, two rookies, to carry the way for the rest of the season. The two goalies had combined for only 36 NHL starts before Saturday, but Ersberg has been strong in stretches and Quick continued his recent masterful play Saturday when he allowed only one goal in a 2-1 shootout win over Philadelphia.
Analysis: Quick has allowed two or fewer goals in five consecutive starts and has allowed 11 goals in 19 periods this season. Ersberg has a 2.38 goals-against average and a .903 save percentage in 18 games this season. "It's a great situation for those young guys right now, and both goalies will play," coach Terry Murray said. "We have (eight more) games before the All-Star break, and as we move through the rest of the year, with the travel and the schedule the way it is, both guys are going to play. They will complement each other and support each other and become a good tandem." While the Kings are happy with their goalie situation, Fantasy owners are not since we don't know which goalie is going to start on a nightly basis. Both Ersberg and Quick are low-end Fantasy options until one of them emerges from the pack. The Kings TG still remains a low-end option as well.
News: Los Angeles G Erik Ersberg was still missing as of Saturday against the Flyers with a groin injury. There was a possibility that Ersberg would return for the game but Jonathan Quick got the start instead.
Analysis: Ersberg has been the Kings' best goalie this season, but since he has been out, Jonathan Quick has been a nice addition in net. Ersberg is likely to get back into the mix when healthy, but still remains more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News: The Canucks, still missing top goalie Roberto Luongo, added some netminder insurance by acquiring Jason LaBarbera from the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday night for a seventh-round pick in the 2009 draft. Labarbera will join Curtis Sanford and rookie Cory Schneider, who have been sharing goaltending duties since Luongo was placed on the injured list Nov. 23 because of a groin injury. Luongo resumed skating on his own Tuesday, but isn't expected to be ready for game action for at least three weeks.
Analysis: The 28-year-old Labarbera went 5-8-4 with a 2.83 goals-against average, an .893 save percentage and two shutouts in 18 games with the Kings this season. The British Columbia native became expendable to Los Angeles because of the improved play by Jonathan Quick, who recorded a pair of shutouts last week. Labarbera, selected by the New York Rangers in the third round of the 1998 draft, is 34-42-8 with a 3.00 goals-against average, .901 save percentage and four shutouts in 98 NHL games. He is expected to join the Canucks in Nashville, where they are scheduled to play the Predators on Thursday. The move means Los Angeles will use Quick and Erik Ersberg, who is set to return from a groin injury, in net.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Kings G Erik Ersberg participated in a full morning-skate practice Saturday and is likely to return to action Saturday against Philadelphia. Ersberg has been out with a groin strain he suffered on Dec. 15. "I think he's very close (to returning)," Kings goach Terry Murray said. "He's got no restriction in what he's doing out there and he just needs to get his timing back, but that should come quickly."
Analysis: Ersberg has been the Kings' best goalie this season, but since he has been out, Jonathan Quick has been a nice addition in net. Ersberg is likely to get back into the mix when healthy, but still remains more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg was not in uniform Wednesday against the Rangers after leaving Monday's game against the Sharks with a groin injury and the Los Angeles Times reports he will be out at least two weeks. Jonathan Quick dressed as Jason LaBarbera's backup.
Analysis: Lower-body injuries can be problematic for goalies and we are likely looking at Ersberg missing a fair amount of time. It's just unfortunate it comes at a bad time for Ersberg as he was finally getting his footing back in net. Ersberg is a decent No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game when healthy.
News:Erik Ersberg started in goal for the Kings Monday against the Sharks after posting back-to-back wins over St. Louis and Minnesota, but was forced out of the game at 6:54 of the second period because of an undisclosed lower-body injury after stopping 10 of 11 shots. Jason LaBarbera inherited a 2-1 lead from Ersberg and Patrick Marleau got the equalizer at 15:43 of the period, just 10 seconds after teammate Dan Boyle was sent off for slashing Dustin Brown. Ryane Clowe got the deciding goal in the shootout and the Sharks topped the Kings 3-2 on Monday night. LaBarbera made 13 saves in the shootout loss.
Analysis: Ersberg isn't the first goalie this season to sustain a lower-body injury and he won't be the last. It's just unfortunate it comes at a bad time for Ersberg as he was finally getting his footing back in net. Teams have been patient this season with goalies and lower-body ailments, so we can only hope for the best. Ersberg is a decent No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game when healthy. The Kings TG remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Kings coach Terry Murray talked during the week about how he feared goalie Erik Ersberg might be getting worn down by a heavy workload. Either Ersberg is quick to recover or Murray's fears were unfounded. Or perhaps Murray motivated Ersberg a bit. Since Murray's comments, Ersberg has played two dynamic games and won both. He stopped 59 of 62 shots combined in the two victories, including Saturday's 3-1 home victory over Minnesota.
Analysis: It's not as though Murray's comments were baseless. Ersberg is slight in stature (listed, quite generously, at 6 feet and 182 pounds), has yet to play a full NHL season and struggled early this month and in late November. In his last two games, however, Ersberg has made a compelling case that he, and not Jason LaBarbera, deserves the bulk of the workload in the near future. Ersberg now has a stronger record, goals-average average and save percentage. "Ersberg was great," Murray said. "He was focused and he killed a lot of plays." The Kings have four games Week 11 (Dec. 15-21) with one back-to-back. Ersberg could start the bulk or split time with LaBarbera. Murray has been all over the place with his goalie situation this season, so it's anybody's guess. Consider Ersberg a No. 3 Fantasy goalie Week 11, while LaBarbera is an option in leagues that use average points per game.
News: G Erik Ersberg started his second straight game in place of Jason LaBarbera and did not disappoint with a 3-1 win over the Wild on Saturday, blocking 33 Minnesota shots. Ersberg has now won three of his last four decisions.
Analysis: If Ersberg continues to look good, he could continue getting starts because LaBarbera hasn't been spectacular this season. Continue considering him a No. 3 Fantasy goalie with potential to move up to a second-tier goalie if he gets more starts. The Kings TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Erik Ersberg got the start Thursday against the Blues after Jason LaBarbera's 6-1 loss at Colorado on Tuesday and made 26 saves during a 6-2 win. He never trailed in the game and led 4-0 before St. Louis scored their first goal 13:23 into the second period.
Analysis: Ersberg won for just the second time in six outings. He has slipped a little after a solid November run and is once again sharing time in net with LaBarbera. Until that changes. he remains a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Kings TG is still a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Kings goalie Erik Ersberg only lasted one period Friday against the Oilers and his replacement Jason LaBarbera kept Los Angeles in the game, but it wasn't enough as Edmonton squeaked out a 5-4 shootout win. LaBarbera made 15 saves in each of the last two regulation periods and another in overtime after Edmonton built a 3-0 lead agains Ersberg through the first 20 minutes. The Kings responded to coach Terry Murray's goalie switch better than he could have imagined, scoring all their goals during an 8:31 span in the second period to take the lead. LaBarbera, who finished with 30 saves, then allowed Dustin Penner to tie the game 8:23 into the third period. He was beaten 2-1 in the shootout. Ersberg made 10 saves before being pulled.
Analysis: Ersberg has just two wins in his last eight outings and is no longer the strong netminder he first was when he took over for the struggling LaBarbera. Murray has alternated the duo as of late and it could continue until one of them shows he has the hot hand. Ersberg might not be done in net, but right now he is a risky No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Kings TG is still a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Los Angeles G Erik Ersberg stopped 22 shots in Tuesday's 4-2 loss to the Phoenix Coyotes. Ersberg allowed three of the goals as the final one was scored on an empty net. Ersberg allowed two of the three goals against him in the 3rd period with the Kings up 2-1 coming in.
Analysis: Ersberg and the Kings just couldn't stop the bleeding on Tuesday and the netminder fell to 6-5-2 on the year. He's been sharp, however, having allowed three or more goals just three times in his last nine contests. Continue to treat him like a No. 3 Fantasy goalie playing well enough to be masked as a No. 2 option on the low-end side. The Kings TG is still a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Erik Ersberg made 22 saves in Saturday's 5-2 win over Chicago. He allowed two goals for the fifth time in his last sevenn games. It was just his second win in four games.
Analysis: Ersberg has made 11 straight starts for L.A. since the Flames beat LaBarbera and the Kings 3-2 on Nov. 1 in L.A. The win on Tuesday improves his record to 6-4-2 on the season for Los Angeles. Continue to treat him like a No. 3 Fantasy goalie playing well enough to be masked as a No. 2 option on the low-end side. The Kings TG is still a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Los Angeles G Erik Ersberg, who came into Tuesday's game against the Flames with a 2.05 goals-against average, was pulled by the Kings after getting beat four times in 18 shots by the midway point in the game. He admittedly didn't get very much help from his teammates. Backup Jason LaBarbera was called in from the bullpen as the Kings lost 6-2.
Analysis: Ersberg has made 10 straight starts for L.A. since the Flames beat LaBarbera and the Kings 3-2 on Nov. 1 in L.A. The loss on Tuesday drops his record to 5-4-2 on the season for Los Angeles. The Kings have come out on the bottom in four of his last five starts and he was pulled on Tuesday in favor of LaBarbera. The backup wasn't much better against the high-scoring Flames, however, and Ersberg is not in jeopardy of losing his job. Continue to treat him like a No. 3 Fantasy goalie playing well enough to be masked as a No. 2 option on the low-end side. The Kings TG is still a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Los Angeles G Erik Ersberg got his team to a shootout on Saturday night against the Avalanche but he allowed Milan Hejduk's shootout goal as the Kings lost 4-3. Ersberg stopped 26 shots in regulation and overtime and allowed three goals in the game.
Analysis: Ersberg came into Saturday's game having allowed two goals in each of his last five starts so the fact that he broke that streak wasn't good news for the Kings, who lost the shootout. Still, it shows that he's plenty consistent and worth using as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie playing well enough to be masked as a No. 2 option on the low-end side. The Kings TG is still a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg, who made his eighth straight start, stopped 19 shots during a 5-2 win Thursday against the Capitals. He allowed just one power-play goal as he put an end to a two-game losing streak.
Analysis: Ersberg is 5-2-1 during his recent starting stretch and hasn't allowed more than three goals in that span. It seems Los Angeles has found it's goalie and Ersberg is quickly picking up Fantasy steam. While we think he will level out to be a No. 3 Fantasy goalie, Ersberg is playing well enough to possibly pass as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Kings TG is still a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Kings goalie Erik Ersberg, whose current string of seven consecutive starts began with the previous meeting against the Ducks, made 24 saves in the rematch during a 2-0 loss Sunday. Ersberg had allowed just 13 goals during the last seven games (4-2-1), but has lost his last two despite allowing just two goals.
Analysis: Ersberg has allowed more than two goals just once during his recent run of starts and pretty much has nailed down the No. 1 job in Los Angeles. However, since L.A. is not a top offensive team, Ersberg remains more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Kings TG is a low-end Fantasy option as well.
News: Los Angeles G Erik Ersberg was pretty solid in net on Saturday night against the Nashville Predators. Ersberg stopped 19 of 21 shots and allowed two goals but the Kings lost 3-1. The score was tied at one entering the 3rd period but Ersberg allowed J.P. Dumont to score on a power play and Shea Weber added an empty net goal to give the score its final margin.
Analysis: Ersberg falls to 4-2-1 on the season with the loss and loses in regulation for the first time in six games. He run of wins prior to Saturday pretty much solidifies Ersberg's role as the Kings' top goaltender. Los Angeles tried to stick with Jason LaBarbera, but he struggled to begin the season. Ersberg has been solid in all of his outings in 2008-09 and has the Kings looking like kings in the Western Conference. Consider adding Ersberg in Fantasy and using him as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Kings TG is still a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Erik Ersberg made 24 saves to help the Los Angeles Kings extend their winning streak to four games with a 3-2 victory against the Dallas Stars on Thursday night. Ersberg never trailed in the game and allowed both goals on the power play. He shutout the Stars in the third period.
Analysis: This run of wins pretty much solidifies Ersberg's role as the Kings' top goaltender. Los Angeles tried to stick with Jason LaBarbera, but he struggled to begin the season. Ersberg has been solid in all of his outings in 2008-09 and has the Kings looking like kings in the Western Conference. Consider adding Ersberg in Fantasy and using him as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie. The Kings TG is still a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Los Angeles G Erik Ersberg stopped 19 shots in regulation and overtime on Tuesday night against the Dallas Stars. Ersberg's teammates couldn't pull away, however, as the game went into a shootout. Ersberg allowed two goals during the game. Ersberg was solid in the shootout and saved the final attempt with his glove as the Kings won 3-2.
Analysis: While Jason LaBarbera was the No. 1 in L.A. to start the season, Los Angeles will likely ride Ersberg as long as he keeps them winning, but LaBarbera will likely get a chance to win back the starting job. Ersberg can be considered a stopgap Fantasy option for now and LaBarbera is not a recommended option at this time. The Kings TG still has low-end Fantasy potential.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Kings G Erik Ersberg will get his fourth straight start Tuesday night against the Stars.
Analysis: While Jason LaBarbera was the No. 1 in L.A. to start the season, Los Angeles will likely ride Ersberg as long as he keeps them winning, but LaBarbera will likely get a chance to win back the starting job. Ersberg can be considered a stopgap Fantasy option for now and LaBarbera is not a recommended option at this time. The Kings TG still has low-end Fantasy potential.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Kings G Erik Ersberg improved to 2-0-1 in his three starts this season, even though he allowed a season-high three goals on 27 shots Saturday against the Blues. Ersberg watched as G Jason LaBarbera started the first 10 games of the season, but coach Terry Murray indicated he will go with a winning goalie, meaning that Ersberg will seemingly have a good chance to start Tuesday against Dallas as well.
Analysis: Here is one of those principles that if it's not broken, why fix it? Los Angeles will likely ride Ersberg as long as he keeps them winning, but LaBarbera will likely get a chance to win back the starting job. Ersberg can be considered a stopgap Fantasy option for Week 6 (Nov. 10-16) and LaBarbera is not a recommended option at this time. The Kings TG still has low-end Fantasy potential.
News: Los Angeles G Erik Ersberg picked up his second win in a row on Saturday night over the St. Louis Blues. Ersberg allowed three goals -- all coming in the 3rd period -- and stopped 24 shots for the victory.
Analysis: Ersberg improved to 2-1-1 on the season and is 2-0 over his last two starts. He's allowed five goals in those two starts and eight on the entire season in five games. It looks as though Ersberg has the hot hand for Los Angeles and will likely remain in net as long as he doesn't screw it up. Jason LaBarbera is not totally out of the picture, but right now Ersberg could serve as a stopgap Fantasy option in larger leagues. The Kings TG still remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Erik Ersberg made his second straight start in goal for the Kings during a 3-2 win Thursday against the Panthers after sitting behind Jason LaBarbera for the first 10 contests. The 26-year-old Swede, who stopped 26 shots in a 1-0 overtime loss to Anaheim on Wednesday, had a relatively easy time of it as his teammates outshot the NHL's lowest-scoring team 12-3 in each of the first two periods. The Panthers got on the board with their first shot of the third period. They were able to keep the puck in the zone with some aggressive forechecking near the left boards and the puck bounced to Anthony Stewart, who took a quick 50-foot wrist shot that surprised Ersberg and beat him to the stick side. Florida got its second goal with late in the third period, as Nathan Horton scored from the top of the right circle while Jay Bouwmeester was serving a hooking penalty. Ersberg stopped 13 shots in the win.
Analysis: It looks as though Ersberg has the hot hand for Los Angeles and will likely remain in net as long as he doesn't screw it up. LaBarbera is not totally out of the picture, but right now Ersberg could serve as a stopgap Fantasy option in larger leagues. The Kings TG still remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: The L.A. Daily News reports that Kings G Erik Ersberg will get a second straight start Thursday when Los Angeles hosts Florida. Ersberg earned the start by playing well Tuesday in a 1-0 OT loss to Anaheim.
Analysis: The No. 1 goalie in L.A., Jason LaBarbera, hasn't produced a victory in either of his last four starts, while Ersberg has looked good in his three appearances. It's a little early to declare a goalie controversy just yet, but if Ersberg can shine against the Panthers then we might have to issue a caution. While Ersberg might look like an attractive flier option right now, the Kings are not a very good team and all their goalies should be avoided in normal leagues.
News: Los Angeles G Erik Ersberg was perfect through regulation on Tuesday night and showed a lot of speed from side to side in the nets against Anaheim. Things fell apart in overtime, however. Just seconds into the extra frame, Chris Pronger connected for the game-winning goal past Ersberg to win 1-0 and defeat the Kings.
Analysis: Ersberg was making his first start of the season Tuesday and did an incredible job stopping 26 shots, regardless of the outcome. The Kings could not score against Jean-Sebastien Giguere and that is the reason Ersberg picks up the overtime loss. Ersberg remains nothing more than a handcuff option to Jason LaBarbera or a flier in leagues that use average points per game, however. The Kings TG is also a low-end Fantasy option.
News: The L.A. Daily News reports that Kings G Erik Ersberg will make his first start of the season Tuesday against the Ducks. "It's going to be fun to get to start a game," Ersberg said. "I've been looking forward to it."
Analysis: Ersberg has been taking a back seat to Jason LaBarbera so far this season, but LaBarbera was pulled from his start Saturday and so Ersberg will get his first shot at starting on Tuesday. Ersberg remains nothing more than a handcuff option to LaBarbera or flier in leagues that use average points per game, however.
News: The Kings lost to the Predators on Saturday and needed to pull starting goalie Jason LaBarbera after just 12:48. Los Angeles called timeout and replaced LaBarbera with Erik Ersberg, making his second appearance of the season. Ersberg played the rest of the way and allowed two goals, stopping 10 shots.
Analysis: Ersberg was certainly better than LaBarbera on Saturday. He might get a start during to give LaBarbera a rest here and there, but he is still expected to see limited PT at this time. Ersberg remains nothing more than a handcuff option to LaBarbera or flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News: Kings G Jason LaBarbera couldn't finish out Monday's 4-3 loss to the Avalanche as he was replaced by Erik Ersberg in the third period. LaBarbera allowed four goals, three in the second period, while making 10 saves. All four of the goals were at even strength. Ersberg finished up in the third period, stopping the only two shots he faced.
Analysis: Ersberg finally got to see some action Monday as he has been the backup for the first five games. He might get a start during Fantasy Week 3 (Oct. 20-26) to give LaBarbera a rest, but he is still expected to see limited PT at this time. Ersberg remains nothing more than a handcuff option to LaBarbera or flier in leagues that use average points per game.
News: The Kings re-signed restricted free agent forward Gabe Gauthier to a two-year contract, goaltender Erik Ersberg to a one-year contract, forward Matt Moulson to a one-year contract and defenseman Joe Piskula to a one-year contract Wednesday. Terms of the agreements were not announced.
Analysis: Ersberg played in 14 games with the Kings in 2007-08 and posted a 6-5-3 record, a team-leading 2.48 GAA, .927 save percentage and two shutouts. He was the first Kings rookie since 2003-04 to post multiple shutouts in one season (joining Cristobal Huet). Ersberg will likely open the season as Los Angeles' backup goalie to Jason LaBarbera, but both goalies might be passed up by rookie Jonathan Bernier as L.A. builds for the future. Ersberg has little Fantasy value outside of leagues that use average points per game.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg allowed five goals for the second straight game Tuesday as Los Angeles fell 5-2 to the Sharks. Ersberg made 29 saves in defeat.
Analysis: Ersberg looked good in his first few starts this season, but hasn't impressed recently. He is a rookie with some potential, but only has value in keeper formats for now.
News:Erik Ersberg was yanked after the second period of Saturday's game after giving up five goals on 25 shots and took the loss in a 7-2 routing against the Dallas Stars. Ersberg was replaced by British-born Daniel Taylor who made his NHL debut and became the 11th goalie the Kings have used since the start of last season. Taylor surrendered a goal to Jere Lehtinen on the first shot against him.
Analysis: Ersberg does have four wins in the last six games. Ignore him in regular formats until next season, but with the Kings goalie situation such a mess, he definitely has some keeper value.
News:Erik Ersberg stopped 38 shots, including 18 in the third period, and the Los Angeles Kings earned a 4-0 victory over the Phoenix Coyotes on Thursday night. Ersberg earned his second career shutout in his 10th NHL start, all in the past month. Ersberg also shut out the Ottawa Senators 2-0 on March 6.
Analysis: Ersberg had won four of the last five starts and has only allowed more than two goals once in his last six outings. He is clearly trying to prove to the Kings brass that he belongs in the NHL and is doing a fine job late in the season. Ignore him in regular formats until next season, but with the Kings goalie situation such a mess, he definitely has some keeper value.
News: Kings rookie G Erik Ersberg made 39 saves Wednesday but fell in a shootout to the Ducks in a 2-1 decision.
Analysis: Ersberg had won three of his previous four starts before Wednesday and has only allowed more than two goals once in his last five outings. He is clearly trying to prove to the Kings brass that he belongs in the NHL and is doing a fine job late in the season. Ignore him in regular formats until next season, but with the Kings goalie situation such a mess, he definitely has some keeper value.
News:Erik Ersberg stopped 25 shots and the Los Angeles Kings rallied for a 4-2 victory over the fading Dallas Stars on Saturday. Ersberg played in his ninth NHL game and won his fourth game.
Analysis: Ersberg has won two straight games and three of the last four. It appears the Kings will give Ersberg as much time in net as possible to see what the future of the franchise holds in goal. The Kings are the worst team in the NHL and that makes Ersberg a very low-end option. The Kings TG also has minimal Fantasy value.
News: Kings goalie Erik Ersberg allowed five goals on 40 shots through regulation time and faced no shots in overtime, but stopped Keith Ballard, Peter Mueller, Radim Vrbata and Shane Doan in the shootout to preserve a 6-5 win over the Phoenix Coyotes on Thursday night.
Analysis: Ersberg improved his record to 3-3-2. He has been somewhat better than Dan Cloutier and the Kings might continue to go with him for a few more games down the stretch. The Kings are the worst team in the NHL and that makes Ersberg a very low-end option. The Kings TG also has minimal Fantasy value.
News: Kings G Erik Ersberg stopped 27 shots during a 2-0 loss Saturday against the Wild. He watched as his team went 0-for-5 on the power play. "You get five power-play chances," coach Marc Crawford said, "and you've got to connect on one of those five. ... So this is one where our power play has to take some ownership of our performance."
Analysis: Ersberg has allowed just three goals in his last two outings. He won Thursday against the Predators and has been a better option than Dan Cloutier. Don't be surprised if the Kings continue to start Ersberg while he has got the hot hand. Still, the Kings are the worst team in the NHL and that makes Ersberg a very low-end option. The Kings TG also has minimal Fantasy value.
News:Erik Ersberg turned away 37 shots, including all 18 in the third period, and the Los Angeles Kings beat the Nashville Predators 4-1 on Thursday night. Ersberg takes his record to 2-2-2, with five of the starts coming in March. The Kings Predators split the four-game season series.
Analysis: With the Kings out of the playoff picture, Ersberg is getting some starts which also makes him worth for a look in deeper Fantasy leagues as well. The Kings TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Rookie Erik Ersberg stopped 18 shots in his fourth start, but the Los Angeles Kings lost 5-2 to the Montreal Canadiens, the top team in the Eastern Conference. Ersberg beat Ottawa 2-0 on Thursday with 40 saves for his first NHL victory and shutout.
Analysis: With the Kings out of the playoff picture, Ersberg might get some starts the rest of the season and therefore be worth a look in Fantasy leagues, too. The Kings TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Erik Ersberg, the first Swedish-born goalie in Kings history, stopped 16 shots in the first period, including a slap shot by Jason Spezza that knocked his mask off midway through the first period. The shot left Ersberg dazed for a few moments, but the goalie recovered and earned his first career NHL win in style with a 2-0 shutout over the Ottawa Senators on Thursday. Ersberg started in place of Jason LaBarbera, who underwent season-ending surgery for a sports hernia a day earlier.
Analysis: Ersberg, who turns 26 years old on Saturday, is one of 10 different goalies the Kings have used since the start of last season. Ersberg was the first rookie goaltender to make at least 40 saves in a shutout since Nov. 14, 1996, when Vancouver’s Mike Fountain, in his NHL debut, stopped all 40 shots he faced in a 3-0 win at New Jersey. The 40 saves were the most ever by a Kings rookie goaltender in a shutout, breaking the old mark of 38 set by Gary Edwards in a 2-0 win at Boston on March 5, 1972. With the Kings out of the playoff picture, Ersberg might get some starts the rest of the season and therefore be worth a look in Fantasy leagues, too. The Kings TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Erik Ersberg continues to look for his first win after losing his third start, 3-2, to the St. Louis Blues on Tuesday. Ersberg first two defeats were in overtime.
Analysis: Ersberg made his first appearance Feb. 23 against the Blackhawks and also took an overtime decision in a relief outing. He will likely head back to the minors as soon as Jason LaBarbera (goin) is healthy. Ignore Ersberg in Fantasy leagues. The Kings TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Martin Skoula scored with 1:15 left in overtime past Erik Ersberg and Minnesota gained sole possession of the division lead with a 2-1 win over the Los Angeles Kings on Sunday. Standing at the right of the crease, Skoula took a pass from Marian Gaborik below the goal line and poked the puck between the pads of Ersberg, who made 33 saves in his first career start. "It's a little bitter when you end up losing the game, but we got one point and I'm happy with my performance," Ersberg said.
Analysis: Ersberg made his first appearance Feb. 23 against the Blackhawks and also took an overtime decision in a relief outing. He will likely head back to the minors as soon as Jason LaBarbera (goin) is healthy. Ignore Ersberg in Fantasy leagues. The Kings TG is a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Erik Ersberg replaced Dan Cloutier, who gave up five goals on 17 shots, to make his NHL debut on Saturday and get tagged with his first loss after Chicago won 6-5 in overtime. Ersberg became the 10th different goalie to play for the Kings since the start of last season. He stopped the first 18 shots he faced before giving up Patrick Sharp's overtime goal on a rebound after making an arm save on Brent Seabrook's wrist shot.
Analysis: Ersberg is up with the team only because Jason LaBarbera is injured. Ersberg has no Fantasy value at this time.
