San Jose Sharks: Why Alex Stalock Should Start Game 6

The San Jose Sharks need to change something to better the play, and

starting could be just that. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

The San Jose Sharks lost another game in the series against the Los Angeles Kings Saturday night, making it 3-2 thus far in the series.

A shutout loss at home like this is few and far between. And in a playoff series, somewhat unacceptable. After Antti Niemi let yet another shot go by him at the beginning of second period, he was pulled and Alex Stalock took the net. And Stalock shut out the Kings the rest of the game.

Simply put, Niemi did not bring his A-Game. Stalock has shown some amazing performance with the little play he’s seen so far in the post-season. It’s a give or take for which goalie should see the start.

Sure, Stalock has played well against the Kings and Niemi hasn’t capitalized on his post-season experience over the past two games, but this is also the most important game of the year. The Sharks must win this game to avoid a do-or-die situation in Game 7.

Taking everything into consideration, should Stalock see the start on Monday? Yes, I think he should be given a shot at it. He’s had his time in net during this series; he knows what to expect from the Kings. He has the confidence after playing so well the last half of Game 5. And finally, Stalock is the better goalie when it comes to handling and playing the puck. This could definitely benefit the defensive play.

The Sharks need to change something to better the play, and Stalock starting could be just that.