Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck has won the William M. Jennings Trophy for the 2024-25 regular season. The award is presented annually to the goaltender who plays a minimum of 25 games for the team allowing the fewest goals during the regular season.
With this week being NHL Goalie Week in the hockey world, it is the perfect time to talk about the contributions of Braden Holtby for the Washington Capitals.
The Washington Capitals are fortunate to have had two spectacular goalies in their history. Olaf Kolzig was selected by general manager David Poile with the 19th overall pick in the 1989 NHL Entry Draft and Braden Holtby was chosen by GM George McPhee with the 93rd overall pick in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.
NHL head coaches have to hire good assistants. They have to set an overarching philosophy, juggle lineup configurations, and do the kind of “man management” that is impossible to track statistically.
It isn't clear what kind of contract Holtby is looking for. However, it's believed he could receive north of $6 million per season over the span of three to five years.