Grizz host Grand Rapids

As the Utah Grizzlies gear up for one of their most critical weeks of the season, they'll do it with another goalie.

Jason Bacashihua is no stranger to Utah; he's just part of the recent goalie shuffle between the Utah Grizzlies and the Dallas Stars.

All-Star MVP Marty Turco is on the injured list with a sprained ankle, and apparently the Stars organization can't decide on whom they want to sit on the bench behind Ron Tugnutt.

During Dallas' 2-0 win over Columbus on Tuesday, it was Corey Hirsch. Last week it was rookie Bacashihua, the week before it was Hirsch.

Even though neither has seen NHL ice time yet this season, the opportunity to suit up in the NHL is always a thrill.

Bacashihua is 14-15-1 with a 3.25 goals-against average and a .907 save percentage with two shutouts in his rookie season with the Grizzlies. The youngster was Dallas' first-round selection (26th overall) in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft.

Hirsch played in all three games for the Grizzlies this past weekend, stopping 90 of 99 shots faced and going 1-2-0. On the season, Hirsch is 12-13-2 with a 2.77 goals against average and a .920 save percentage.

Despite being back in the AHL this week, Bacashihua probably doesn't need much motivation to get over the disappointment of being reassigned by Dallas Monday.

The Grizzlies host conference-leading Grand Rapids Wednesday and then Cincinnati on Friday and Saturday.

The games with the Mighty Ducks over the weekend are of particular importance. With 15 games remaining in the season, the Grizzlies sit in ninth place in the Western Conference — with 10 teams qualifying for the playoffs. Cincinnati is in 11th position, just six points behind Utah.

A successful weekend for Utah would definitely strengthen its playoff position. However, if the Grizzlies continue to struggle, the Ducks could steal their spot.