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Hellebuyck Maintains Confidence Despite Playoff Setbacks
Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck expressed unwavering confidence following his removal during the team’s recent playoff losses. Despite being pulled from the net in the last two games, Hellebuyck remains focused and ready as the Jets prepare for Game 5 against the St. Louis Blues.
Announced on Monday as a Vezina Trophy finalist, Hellebuyck emphasized his positive mindset ahead of the crucial home game. The series is now tied 2-2 after the Blues secured impressive victories of 5-1 and 7-2 in the last two contests.
“Certainly, giving up that many goals isn’t ideal, but we’re tied in the series, and that’s what matters. We need to win the next one,” he stated, noting that he and several teammates opted out of Monday’s optional skate.
“Will I be better? Absolutely. I have devoted extensive time to studying goaltending, arguably more than anyone else, so I know how to elevate my game moving forward.”
Backup goaltender Eric Comrie stepped in for Hellebuyck during both losing efforts, allowing just one goal in the most recent game.
Hellebuyck competes for the NHL’s premier goaltending accolade, alongside Darcy Kuemper of the Los Angeles Kings and Andrei Vasilevskiy from the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Michigan native, who claimed the Vezina Trophy last season and also won in 2020, was a finalist in 2018 and 2023. This season, he registered remarkable statistics, including personal bests of 47 wins, eight shutouts, a goals-against average of 2.00, and a save percentage of .925. His performance was pivotal in guiding Winnipeg to the best record in the league and securing home-ice advantage through the Presidents’ Trophy.
Steady Consistency Key for Hellebuyck
Discussing the playoff experience, Hellebuyck remarked, “It would be illogical to alter my strategy after an entire regular season of successful performance. Transitioning to the playoffs doesn’t warrant drastic changes. I understand what works for me and plan to stick with it.”
Currently, Hellebuyck’s performance in the series reflects a .817 save percentage and a 4.24 goals-against average.
The Jets began the playoffs strong, winning their first two home games with scores of 5-3 and 2-1.
Reflecting on the series dynamics, Jets head coach Scott Arniel said, “In the first two games, our goaltending clearly outperformed theirs. Conversely, in the latter two games, their goaltending surpassed our own. It’s a straightforward analysis.” He further elaborated on how both top scorers and supportive players must elevate their games to ensure success in playoffs.
“This has been a tale of two different performances. The first two games saw us excel across the board, while the last two were dominated by our opponents,” Arniel added.
Veteran defenceman Neal Pionk acknowledged the need for improved support for Hellebuyck, stressing the importance of basic defensive fundamentals, such as effective shot-blocking. “Going back to the fundamentals is crucial. We need to ensure Helly has a clear view of the puck. Bad bounces happen, but that’s the nature of playoff hockey,” he stated.
Hellebuyck also recently earned his second consecutive Williams M. Jennings Trophy, awarded to the goaltender on the team allowing the fewest goals during the regular season. He affirmed the importance of mental resilience heading into the next phase of the playoffs.
“Being mentally strong is essential during playoff season. Entering a game with fear leads to mistakes and regret. My focus is on playing our game and improving each shift, game, and day,” Hellebuyck shared.
Vilardi’s Potential Return
In roster news, top-line winger Gabriel Vilardi might make his return for the upcoming game after missing the last 15 matches due to an upper-body injury sustained on March 23. Arniel confirmed Vilardi was cleared to play on Sunday and participated in warm-up sessions.
“If he’s ready and cleared, we’re all-in,” noted Arniel regarding Vilardi’s availability.
Source
globalnews.ca