Introduction

As we approach the midway point of the NHL season, the goaltending performances across the league have provided fans with a roller-coaster of emotions. With some teams enjoying stability in net while others search for answers, we take a closer look at how each team stacks up and award midterm grades based on their goaltending situations.

Goaltending Assessments by Team

Anaheim Ducks: Grade CThe Ducks started strong but have struggled with injuries, particularly losing starting goalie Lukáš Dostál. Despite their high-scoring style, they rank among the highest in shots against, with Dostál leading the team with a .894 save percentage. Petr Mrázek has struggled in comparison.

Boston Bruins: Grade CJeremy Swayman has been a beacon of consistency amid a turbulent season for the Bruins, sporting a .901 save percentage despite facing high-danger chances. Joonas Korpisalo's performance, however, has not matched Swayman’s level.

Buffalo Sabres: Grade BThe Sabres have surged to success with goaltending from Alex Lyon and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, both showcasing stellar performances and contributing significantly to an eight-game win streak.

Calgary Flames: Grade B minusDustin Wolf leads the turnaround for the Flames, boasting a .911 save percentage since early December. Devin Cooley has supplemented well in a backup role, giving Calgary hope for consistent goaltending.

Carolina Hurricanes: Grade B plusBrandon Bussi's exceptional play has provided a much-needed boost for the Hurricanes, outshining both Kochetkov and Andersen and showing promise for the playoffs.

Chicago Blackhawks: Grade CSpencer Knight has had ups and downs, with his recent performance dipping. Despite being a top goalie early in the season, injuries have affected his contributions.

Colorado Avalanche: Grade AScott Wedgewood and Mackenzie Blackwood have been outstanding, with Wedgewood holding a .919 save percentage. The Avalanche's goaltending has been a key factor in their dominance in the standings.

Columbus Blue Jackets: Grade CJet Greaves continues to impress despite a 10-9-5 record, showcasing skill with a .907 save percentage and earning the primary role over Merzļikins.

Dallas Stars: Grade AJake Oettinger and Casey DeSmith have led the Stars to success, with Oettinger performing exceptionally and DeSmith stepping up as a capable backup.

Detroit Red Wings: Grade C plusJohn Gibson's performance has improved significantly in December, and while he has led the team to wins, Cam Talbot's inconsistency poses challenges.

Edmonton Oilers: Grade D plusThe Oilers' goaltending situation remains a concern after the Jarry trade. While Jarry started strong, injuries have hindered their performance.

Florida Panthers: Grade CSergei Bobrovsky appears to be on a recovery path towards being a reliable goaltender, with key wins aiding their climb in the standings.

Los Angeles Kings: Grade ADarcy Kuemper is a serious candidate for the Vezina Trophy, leading a steady goaltending duo alongside Anton Forsberg.

Minnesota Wild: Grade AThe emergence of rookie Jesper Wallstedt marks a significant turnaround for the Wild, complemented by Gustavsson’s impressive performances.

Montreal Canadiens: Grade B minusJakub Dobeš has taken charge in net, while rookie Jacob Fowler is impressively contesting for starts, showing the team could have a bright future ahead.

Nashville Predators: Grade C minusJuuse Saros has struggled this season, not living up to previous standards while backup Justus Annunen's performance has also dipped.

New Jersey Devils: Grade BBoth Jake Allen and Jacob Markström have provided solid performances, helping the team maintain a respectable save percentage despite challenges.

New York Islanders: Grade AIlya Sorokin and David Rittich have been crucial for the Islanders, keeping them competitive with stellar numbers.

New York Rangers: Grade AIgor Shesterkin is back to his commanding form, supported well by veteran Jonathan Quick in his starts, providing significant stability.

Ottawa Senators: Grade DAn inability to find solid goaltending has hurt the Senators substantially, putting many of their playoff aspirations at risk.

Philadelphia Flyers: Grade BDan Vladař’s performance has provided the Flyers with the consistency they needed, paving the way to potential playoff contention.

Pittsburgh Penguins: Grade C minusThe trade for Stuart Skinner may not have been the best decision as his performance dwindles post-trade, leaving the Penguins in a gray area.

San Jose Sharks: Grade CYaroslav Askarov's brilliance earlier in the season stands out, but consistency issues have emerged as the team rallies for a playoff position.

Seattle Kraken: Grade AThe tandem of Joey Daccord and Philipp Grubauer has thrived, boasting a team save percentage that showcases their defensive resilience.

St. Louis Blues: Grade D plusInconsistent performances from Jordan Binnington and Joel Hofer leave the Blues in a tough position as they continue to chase a playoff spot.

Tampa Bay Lightning: Grade AAndrei Vasilevskiy continues to solidify his reputation as an elite goaltender, paired with a solid backup performance from Jonas Johansson.

Toronto Maple Leafs: Grade B minusThe Maple Leafs have navigated through adversity in goal, but Joseph Woll and Dennis Hildeby have managed to keep things stable despite the chaos.

Winnipeg Jets: Grade B minusConnor Hellebuyck's recovery has been promising, but the Jets' standings suffer from inconsistencies since his return from surgery.