Are Noronen or Hiller a solution to goaltending woes?

In the recent Rich Hammond interview, Dean Lombardi does say that he and coach Crawford might consider going into next season carrying three goalies.

Assuming that Garon walks (UFA) and Cloutier and LaBarbera are under contract, Mikka Noronen seems the only viable solution for the "third guy" on the NHL roster come fall 2007 from the list that has been circulating around lately. He does have quite a lot of NHL experience, which is way more than the large majority of the other Euros there.

Do you think he will/should beat out Barry Brust for the third goalie spot in LA? If not, and Lombardi signs someone else (like a Swiss goalie Jonas Hiller?), where does he end up? Manchester? Is he better than Fuji?

Lombardi has also had a positive spin on Jonathan Quick. Where does this situation leave him and Jeff Zatkoff? I know it seems like a good problem to have for a hockey club - curious about your: "where does the potential Euro goalie fit?" thoughts .

Keep your fingers crossed for the Monarchs!

With LA Kings not going anywhere after this season (unless you count the San Bernardino valley golf courses as a viable option), the shift of attention of the Purple and Black nation moves to the Manchester Monarchs, the Kings primary affiliate in the American Hockey League.

The Monarchs have already gone past the first round of the Calder Cup play-offs, for the first time in their six year history in NH, by eliminating Worcester Sharks 4-2.

They are now tied 1-1 after two games at home against the Providence Bruins (with Game Three coming up on Wednesday). The winner of this conference semi-final will most likely play the defending champion, Hershey Bears, who are up 3-0 against Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins.

Keep your fingers crossed for the AHL top goalie, Jason LaBarbera and the rest of the team in the days to come!