“You can never have enough good goalies.”

That’s something Jim Rutherford is learning from experience this post-season. The Pittsburgh Penguins began the Stanley Cup Playoffs with two injured goaltenders, and now find themselves in the middle of their Eastern Conference Final against the Tampa Bay Lightning with three healthy options in Matt Murray, Marc-Andre Fleury, and Jeff Zatkoff.

Rutherford is also learning first-hand the balancing act required when you’ve got two No. 1-calibre netminders, and just one starting role.

Fleury was medically cleared to return to game action earlier this month, but when it comes to these playoffs, it’s Murray’s time to shine. The rookie netminder has been the story of the post-season for the red-hot Penguins, with a 9-3-1 playoff record, a save percentage of .928, a 2.13 GAA and one shutout to his name.

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“I feel bad for Fleury,” Rutherford said during a media availability Thursday. “He’s such a great team guy and we’re fortunate that he is.”

The Penguins’ general manager knows that playing backup is not an easy position for Fleury to be in — especially when the veteran is looking at a crease that belonged to him for a decade, including nine trips to the playoffs.

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“[Fleury]’s handled this situation like a pro. First class,” continued Rutherford. “He’s ready to go when called on.”

As for the future of the Penguins’ crease, does Murray’s performance mean Fleury’s days in Pittsburgh are numbered?

“Absolutely not,” said Rutherford.