- Apr 27, 2005
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- 33,699
First off, I'm an advocate of using advanced stats as a part of the equation with evaluating the ability of teams and players. Not the only factor, but they can be very telling.
Last year, we saw a Toronto team defying odds and stats, look like a sure bet to make the playoffs. According to the numbers, they were getting consistently outplayed by opponents, and winning. Then Bernier goes down and we all know what happened from there . . .
I consider Bernier to be an elite goaltender, capable of bringing mediocre teams to the playoffs. But I don't necessarily think he's as good on a top team - he's better as an underdog goalie. I think Luongo is the same type of goalie, as was Hasek.
Who are some goalies that thrive in these conditions and are truly capable of throwing their team on their back for an entire season?
Last year, we saw a Toronto team defying odds and stats, look like a sure bet to make the playoffs. According to the numbers, they were getting consistently outplayed by opponents, and winning. Then Bernier goes down and we all know what happened from there . . .
I consider Bernier to be an elite goaltender, capable of bringing mediocre teams to the playoffs. But I don't necessarily think he's as good on a top team - he's better as an underdog goalie. I think Luongo is the same type of goalie, as was Hasek.
Who are some goalies that thrive in these conditions and are truly capable of throwing their team on their back for an entire season?