Penguins Riding Hot Hand at Goalie Against Canucks

“When we’re making decisions, with respect to lineups, we’re always trying to ask which lineup gives us the best chance to win?” Sullivan said on his goaltending decision. “We think Ned’s playing extremely well right now, and he’s deserving of playing.”

Not only is Nedeljkovic getting the nod over Jarry again, but he’s going up against a Vancouver Canucks squad that has been rolling on all cylinders all season. They currently have the second-best record in the NHL and are entering Pittsburgh after back-to-back blow out wins over the New York Rangers and Islanders.

Nedeljkovic stated that he believes the healthy competition between he and Jarry will help carry the Penguins into the postseason as both goalies want to help carry the Penguins to wins. It just so happens Nedeljkovic is the one with the hot hand.

“If we do our job and keep the puck out of the net, they’re going to find ways to score goals eventually,” Nedeljkovic said. “Just got to do what we can.”

In 14 games played this season, Nedeljkovic has hit an 8-3-2 record with a shutout, .922 save percentage, and a 2.5 goals against average. Jarry on the other hand, while still technically the starter has an 11-12-2 record with a .912 saver percentage and 2.6 goals against average.

The more Nedeljkovic plays and performs at this level, the quicker we can all consider the Penguins goaltending tandem a 1A and 1B situation.