Articles / The most interesting goalie situations in the NHL

The most interesting goalie situations in the NHL

S
Sportsnet
Nov 6, 2025 1:09 PM

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In the current NHL season, goaltending situations across the league have become particularly intriguing as teams look to solidify their rosters. For instance, the Toronto Maple Leafs are navigating a complex goalie dynamic with both Ilya Samsonov and Matt Murray vying for the starting position. Their performances will be critical in determining who earns the trust of the coaching staff as the playoffs approach.

Meanwhile, the Chicago Blackhawks are seemingly committed to a youth movement, featuring rookie goaltender Arvid Söderblom. His initial performances have shown promise, yet the pressure mounts as veterans like Petr Mrazek loom in the background. The Blackhawks' strategy indicates a willingness to develop younger talent while balancing the needs of immediate competition.

Furthermore, the Calgary Flames find themselves in a precarious position with Jacob Markström struggling to find his form this season. With an aging roster and playoff aspirations, the Flames may need to seek alternatives if Markström cannot regain his previous form. This could lead to increased scrutiny on backup options and potential trades as the trade deadline looms.

Similarly, the Florida Panthers find themselves in a tight spot with Sergei Bobrovsky and Spencer Knight. Bobrovsky's ice time coupled with Knight's emerging talent creates a delicate balance that could dictate the Panthers' playoff push. Fans are eager to see how Coach Paul Maurice will manage the two netminders moving forward, especially in critical games.

Each of these teams showcases a unique story, highlighting how essential goaltending is to a team's success and the varying strategies employed to address challenges in net. As the season progresses, these situations will not only impact individual franchises but also the broader playoff landscape in the NHL.