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Wolf’s the Hot Goalie: Flames Plan to Ride Him

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | By Old Prof | Last updated Nov 19, 2024 4:22 PM ET

Calgary Flames head coach Ryan Huska made waves with his decision to start rookie goaltender Dustin Wolf in back-to-back games. After Wolf recorded a shutout in his last outing, Huska explained that the choice reflects his coaching philosophy: rewarding performance and fostering confidence in young talent. Huska’s comments provide insight into how he manages his goaltenders and navigates the delicate balance between development and competition.

Huska Believes in Rewarding Performance

In discussing Wolf’s back-to-back start, Huska emphasized that the young netminder’s shutout earned him another opportunity. According to Huska, it’s “the right thing to do” to keep a goalie rolling when performing well.

Drawing on his experience coaching in the minors, Huska highlighted a precedent for this approach. “I remember in the minors, we had a couple of goaltenders and treated them the same along the way. They were both prospects,” Huska said. The idea was simple: when one goalie excels, they get the next start, reinforcing their confidence and rewarding their effort. This philosophy suggests that Huska values momentum and uses it to push players toward their potential.

Balancing Goaltending Duties

Huska acknowledged that the Flames aim to balance goaltending duties until one goalie demonstrates they’re ready to take the reins. While Dan Vladar remains the team’s veteran option, Wolf’s strong performance has opened the door for competition.

Huska suggested that the team’s strategy is flexible and performance-driven. “We did that [balancing starts] for them, and they were fine with it,” he explained, referencing his past coaching experiences. For Wolf, this means opportunities will come as long as he continues to impress. However, the coaching staff remains mindful of balancing his development with the demands of an NHL season.

Wolf’s Big Opportunity

Wolf stood out in the AHL and is one of the Flames’ top prospects. He has an opportunity to prove that he belongs in the NHL. His shutout performance has sparked excitement among Flames fans, and his back-to-back starts suggest the team is willing to give him a real chance to show what he can do.

If Wolf records another shutout, Huska indicates that the young goalie might continue to get started. “I just feel like it’s the right thing to do,” Huska said, underscoring his commitment to riding the hot hand while balancing the team’s needs.

Huska’s Decision Is a Bold Move with Long-Term Implications

Huska’s decision to start Wolf in consecutive games signals a willingness to invest in the Flames’ future. If Wolf continues to perform well, it could force the coaching staff to rethink their goaltending hierarchy, potentially leading to more starts for the rookie and reshaping the team’s strategy.

While it’s too early to tell whether Wolf will cement himself as a full-time NHL starter, Huska’s comments reveal a coach who is not afraid to adapt and reward performance. Wolf’s next games could define his path with the Flames, and Huska’s reflect a broader commitment to nurturing young talent while keeping the Flames competitive.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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