Goaltending Out of Problem Area

Early in the season, Andy Murray took a firm stand when he stuck with Felix Potvin, even though the Kings’ No. 1 goaltender was having problems stopping the puck.

But after the Kings started 5-11-1-2, Murray decided to give backup Jamie Storr a serious look at Minnesota on Nov. 18. The move must have worked because since then, goaltending hasn’t been an issue and the Kings have gone 15-6-6 after Tuesday night’s 2-0 victory over Nashville.

Potvin, who had a 1.90 goals-against average in his last 17 appearances before Tuesday, was in goal against the Predators for his 18th start in 21 games.

With the Kings not scheduled for games in successive days until after the Olympic break in late February, Murray’s problem now is getting more playing time for Storr, who has an impressive 1.68 goals-against average.

“We’ll certainly keep Jamie involved,” Murray said. “I think he’s deserving of that. Both goalies have been getting the job done for us, so it’s a way to keep both guys sharp. So we will involve Jamie, certainly. But I haven’t put an exact schedule together.”

*

King captain Mattias Norstrom will carry the Olympic flame as part of the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Torch Relay today at 8 a.m. Norstrom, who will play for Sweden in next month’s Olympics, is scheduled to run with the torch in Pasadena.

*

Before Tuesday’s game against the Predators, veteran winger Kelly Buchberger was honored for playing in his 1,000 game last week at New Jersey.

Lonnie White