Joseph Woll, a rookie goaltender for the Toronto Maple Leafs, has emerged as a standout performer in the NHL this season.
Before the start of the Maple Leafs’ season, there was uncertainty about their goaltending situation, but Joseph Woll has proven to be the solution with his exceptional performance.
Woll’s current level of play has significantly impacted Toronto’s overall record. Despite his individual record standing at 8-5-1, he deserves credit for stealing three games personally, and his influence on the team’s success is evident.
In 14 games, Toronto has allowed 27 or more shots on goal 13 times. Woll’s standout performance is highlighted by the fact that the only time the Leafs allowed fewer shots was when he played two periods against the Tampa Bay Lightning, stopping 18 of 19 shots and securing the win.
Comparing Woll’s statistics with other goalies who have played more than 10 games this season, he ranks fourth in shots faced per night. His stats include 459 shots allowed (32.7 shots per game), a 2.82 goals-against average (GAA), and a .915 save percentage (SV%).
Notably, Woll faces more shots per night than only three other goalies: Ilya Sorkin, Jake Allen, and Mackenzie Blackwood. However, these goalies play for teams that are not considered strong contenders, unlike the Toronto Maple Leafs, who were among the favorites to win the Stanley Cup.
The article suggests that if the Leafs can reduce the shots allowed when Woll is in goal, it could significantly improve their defensive performance. While relying on a rookie goalie in the playoffs may be challenging, recent examples like the Pittsburgh Penguins and St. Louis Blues winning championships with rookie goaltenders show it’s a viable strategy.
Interestingly, the Maple Leafs face more shots on goal when Woll is in net compared to Ilya Samsonov. Despite allowing fewer shots per night, Samsonov has less impressive stats, with a 3.58 GAA and .878 SV%. This leads to speculation that the team feels more confident playing aggressively with Woll in goal.
In conclusion, if Joseph Woll maintains his outstanding performance, he is not only a strong contender for the Calder Trophy as a top rookie but also deserves consideration for the Vezina Trophy as one of the league’s top goaltenders.
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