The role of a backup goaltender in the NHL is changing. Once confined to playing only in the second night of back to backs and in case of injury, backup goaltenders have been asked to shoulder an increasing load so that the starting goaltender can stay rested and perform at his highest level. However, the starter is the starter for a reason, and there is usually a drop off in performance going from the starter to the backup (unless you are the St. Louis Blues) potentially costing the team valuable points in the standing.
So, what is the proper balance?