Why goalie tandems have taken over the NHL -- even...
Key takeaways
- But, it was just the latest example of why it's becoming more difficult for NHL teams to get through an entire postseason with just one goaltender.
- Traditionally, teams had a clear-cut starter and a backup.
- The Utah Mammoth's Karel Vejmelka was the only one who reached the 60-start threshold this season, while 18 other goaltenders played 50 or more.
Why this matters: a sports story that could shift standings, legacies, or fan conversations.
Carolina Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour's decision to pull Frederik Andersen in favor of Brandon Bussi in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final was initially seen as a move to rest Andersen after he allowed four unanswered goals in the second period against the Vegas Golden Knights.
But, it was just the latest example of why it's becoming more difficult for NHL teams to get through an entire postseason with just one goaltender.
Traditionally, teams had a clear-cut starter and a backup. The starters often played 60 to 70 games in the regular season, while playing every minute in the playoffs barring a lopsided score line, with the backups taking on the rest.