Jason LaBarbera hurt his leg last Saturday — this being hockey, that could mean anything from a bruised hip to a broken toe, although I believe it’s a knee issue — and is considered week to week. That’s a big blow for a Manchester team that has designs on an AHL championship. The AHL playoffs start one week from tomorrow. Barry Brust has had a solid 2.49 goals-against average in Manchester.

As for more reinforcements, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see both Brian Boyle and Marc-Andre Cliche in Manchester soon. Cliche is now under contract and now that the NCAA season is over, the Kings are free to sign Boyle. They’re not expected to have the same types of problems with him that they’ve had with Scott Parse. Here’s what Boyle told the Union-Leader on Sunday:

“I haven’t been contacted yet (by the Kings), but I just arrived home after the (NCAA championship game) loss and spending time with my family. I expect to hear from (the Kings) this week. I really want to get back on the ice because I love playing and it will kind of take my mind off of what happened last night. I’d hate to see my studies go to waste and it would really benefit me to complete my final semester. Guys like Peter Harrold, Ryan Murphy, Jeff Giuliano and Brendan Buckley have kept me up to date. Physically, I’m fine and I’m looking forward to playing in Manchester. The building (Verizon Wireless Arena) was good to us (Boston College in NCAA Northeast Regionals) and I know the fans love their hockey up there. I can’t wait to play again.”