Bernier’s goal support? A meager 1.57

Good luck, Jonathan Bernier. In seven starts this season, Bernier is 2-4-1, and the Kings scored a total of 11 goals in those seven games. Bernier was shaky in his first two starts, but in his last five starts, he has allowed a total of only 10 goals. Bernier has been getting even less support than Jonathan Quick. In the 35 games started by Quick, the Kings have scored a total of 77 goals (2.20 average). In Bernier’s seven starts, the Kings have scored a total of 11 goals (1.57). In Bernier’s five losses (including the overtime loss), the Kings have been shut out twice and scored a total of four goals.

Statistically, that would indicate that if Bernier allows more than one goal, he’s in trouble. But no pressure, right? Especially for a guy who only gets in a game every two weeks or so. Still, Darryl Sutter said he expects Bernier to thrive when he gets an opportunity.

SUTTER: “When they go in, they better be ready. It’s no different than anybody else, if you’re an extra defenseman or an extra forward. When you have a goalie who is clearly your best player, then the other guy better be ready when he goes in. Based on how many games he plays, he’s going to have to win more than half his games. Otherwise it doesn’t serve its purpose.’’

Question: Do you like, whether it’s the word “competition’’ or something else, to have the two goalies pushing each other?

SUTTER: “Probably eight or 10 of the top players in the league are goaltenders, and we’re fortunate enough to have one of them, so the other guy better be pushing. It is still based on performance. Jonathan Quick is a guy who has come (up) the hard way. Bernier is a first-round pick. You know what, it gets blown out of proportion. You’ve still got to pay your dues, and it’s about earning your minutes. That’s what the game is about.’’