The NHL is experiencing a surge in scoring over the past three seasons, thanks in part to the league’s crackdown on goalie equipment. With lower average save percentages across the Original 32 teams compared to just four years ago, it’s clear that the NHL’s efforts to increase scoring are paying off.
The increase in speed and skill from team to team is another factor contributing to the rise in scoring. Fans are witnessing some incredible displays of talent on the ice, with players showcasing their abilities in ways never seen before. However, not every team has been able to solve their goaltending issues, which could have a significant impact on the upcoming playoffs.
Several playoff contenders, including Carolina, Toronto, Tampa, Detroit, New Jersey, Colorado, and Edmonton, have struggled to find consistent goaltending. While some teams have found success with backup goalies or unexpected contributors, the lack of stability in the net could pose problems in the playoffs. Even teams like the Vegas Golden Knights, who have a goalie with the league-leading save percentage in Adin Hill, are not immune to uncertainty as they share starts between Hill and Logan Thompson.
The Vancouver Canucks are finally witnessing the top-tier performance they always expected from Thatcher Demko. However, there’s no guarantee that Demko’s stellar play will continue throughout the playoffs. The fate of teams in the postseason will depend on their evaluation of their goaltending situation and their level of desperation.
For example, the New Jersey Devils, who were considered Cup contenders by many observers, have struggled with woeful goaltending. Their season has been marred by a combination of poor performance from their goalies and Dougie Hamilton’s long-term injury. Despite other areas of their game being on track, the Devils face the possibility of wasting a season that was supposed to be within their championship window.
The Toronto Maple Leafs also find themselves in a precarious situation. With Joseph Woll injured, Ilya Samsonov performing poorly, and Martin Jones as their main goaltender, the Leafs cannot afford to waste a year. They need to find a solution to their goaltending issues to maximize their chances of success.
On the other hand, teams like the Carolina Hurricanes and New York Rangers have different outlooks. The Hurricanes are desperate for a breakthrough after several disappointing playoff exits, while the Rangers can afford to wait for their starter Igor Shesterkin to regain his form. The Colorado Avalanche, who won a Cup just two years ago with average goaltending, may prioritize addressing their second-line issues over their goaltending problems.
Finding solutions on the trade market is also challenging. While goalies like John Gibson in Anaheim and Petr Mrazek in Chicago may be available, their playoff performances have been questionable in the past. Teams may still take a chance on them, but there are no guarantees. Additionally, players like Jacob Markstrom in Calgary may not be attractive trade options due to their performance not living up to their contracts.
With the uncertainty surrounding goaltending across the league, the upcoming playoffs are expected to be highly entertaining. Fans can anticipate high-scoring games with plenty of goals. However, teams with established and reliable goalies, such as Vegas, Boston, and Dallas, will have a significant advantage and higher confidence levels.
In the midst of all the goalie uncertainties, fans like myself can only hope that a team takes a chance on Petr Mrazek. It would add an exciting element to the playoffs and potentially shake up the goaltending landscape.
Overall, the NHL’s crackdown on goalie equipment and the increase in speed and skill have resulted in more scoring. However, the lack of stability in the net for several playoff contenders adds an intriguing element to the upcoming postseason. It will be interesting to see how teams navigate their goaltending challenges and whether the high-scoring trend continues throughout the playoffs.
