The Atlantic Division is shaping up to be a battleground once again, and the goaltending landscape is no exception. NHL analyst and former goalie Martin Biron recently shared his preseason goalie power rankings for the division on TSN, and the list has sparked plenty of debate among fans and pundits alike.
Biron’s Hot Takes on NHL’s Atlantic Netminders
- Sergei Bobrovsky (Florida Panthers): Bobrovsky’s Vezina-caliber performance during the Panthers’ Stanley Cup run solidified his spot at the top. Biron believes he’s still got the goods to carry the load.
- Jeremy Swayman (Boston Bruins): Swayman’s emergence as a reliable starter gives the Bruins a solid starter with a great defensive system. Biron sees him as a rising star with a bright future.
- Andrei Vasilevskiy (Tampa Bay Lightning): Despite a slightly down year, Vasilevskiy’s track record speaks for itself. Biron expects a bounce-back season from the former Conn Smythe winner.
- Linus Ullmark (Ottawa Senators): Ullmark’s move to Ottawa adds another elite netminder to the division. Biron is confident he’ll thrive with a change of scenery.
- Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (Buffalo Sabres): Luukkonen’s raw talent and potential earned him a spot in the top 5. Biron sees him as a key piece in Buffalo’s resurgence.
- Sam Montembeault (Montreal Canadiens): Montembeault’s steady play last season surprised many. Biron acknowledges his improvement but still has questions about his consistency.
- Joseph Woll (Toronto Maple Leafs): Woll’s health and inexperience are the main concerns for Biron. However, he believes Woll has the potential to climb the rankings quickly if he can stay healthy.
- Cam Talbot (Detroit Red Wings): Talbot’s veteran presence provides stability for the Red Wings. Biron views him as a solid netminder option but not a game-changer.
Fan Reactions and Analysis
Biron’s rankings have ignited a flurry of reactions online. Many fans agree with his assessment of Woll, acknowledging his potential but emphasizing the need for him to prove himself at the NHL level. Others are puzzled by Talbot’s inclusion, questioning his role on a team with Ville Husso as the presumed starter.
The biggest point of contention seems to be Vasilevskiy’s ranking. Several fans believe he deserves a higher spot, citing his impressive career stats and ability to elevate his game in crucial moments. Some even argue that he’s still the best goalie in the division, despite Bobrovsky’s recent success.
Personally, I find Biron’s list to be well-reasoned and insightful. He clearly understands the nuances of goaltending and has a knack for identifying emerging talent. While I might quibble with a few of his choices, overall, I think his rankings accurately reflect the current state of the Atlantic Division’s netminders.
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Jets have a good shot at the cup this year but need at three tall defence and not to slow on his feet