Stars' Lehtonen ready for friendly crease competition with Niemi

For the first time since the 2009-10 season, Kari Lehtonen is set to have some competition between the crease.

The Dallas Stars inked goaltender Antti Niemi this offseason after Lehtonen put up shaky numbers and the team's backup goalies were only able to muster a 7-14-0 record in 25 games. Though the move likely means less playing time for Lehtonen, the 31-year-old is looking forward to some friendly competition.

"From my point of view, it’s a big change," Lehtonen told Mark Stepneski of the Inside Edge. "He’s a really nice guy, and I am happy that he is going to be here. He is going to be pushing me, and I have to do well if I want to get ice time.”

Niemi joins the Stars after putting up a 31-23-7 record in 61 games with the San Jose Sharks. Meanwhile his .914 save percentage and a 2.59 goals-against average both bested Lehtonen's .903 SP and 2.94 GAA.

"It’s going to be exciting. From my point of view, it’s a big change to have Antti here. I am excited to see what we can do together," Lehtonen said. “We got some firepower up front (with Patrick Sharp) and (Johnny) Oduya on defense. I am excited to see where we can take this team."