Contenders Lack Proven Stoppers

Stanley Cup playoff time can bring out the best in a goaltender, as the Mighty Ducks’ Jean-Sebastien Giguere reminded everyone last season. Yet in the Western Conference, there are few who can make an opposing coach lose sleep, at least at face value.

The playoffs begin today and the goalies who made opponents tremble are missing. Colorado’s Patrick Roy has retired. Detroit’s Dominik Hasek failed in his comeback.

Unknown is whether another Giguere will emerge. Dallas’ Marty Turco and San Jose’s Evgeni Nabokov have been tested -- and come up short. Calgary’s Miikka Kiprusoff had a brilliant regular season, as did Turco last year before making a second-round exit.

The oddity is that three of the conference’s top four teams start the playoffs with goaltending questions.

Detroit’s Curtis Joseph flopped last season and the Red Wings must decide whether to give him another shot or go with former King prospect Manny Legace.

Vancouver has the jittery Dan Cloutier back for another try.

Colorado has replaced Roy with David Aebischer, and has veteran Tommy Salo as a safety net.