Stars' Kari Lehtonen: Protecting net Thursday

Lehtonen will defend the net Thursday night in a home clash with the Kings, Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News reports.

Analysis:

Lehtonen was terrific in Tuesday's win over the Predators, as he blocked 27 of 28 shots on the road. Last season, though, he struggled mightily against the Kings, having posted a 3.89 GAA with two losses in three games. There will be safer goalie options on the 11-game slate Thursday.