The Toronto Maple Leafs rookie goaltender Dennis Hildeby has emerged as a stabilizing force in the crease, delivering strong play while Toronto deals with injuries between the pipes to Anthony Stolarz and Joseph Woll.
Thus far this season, Hildeby owns a 2-2-2 record with a sterling .936 save percentage and a 2.15 goals-against average.
He recorded his first career NHL shutout with 29 saves in a 2-0 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Monday night.
At 6′7, his size and calm manner have impressed the coaching staff as he continues to settle into the NHL.
Hildeby’s emergence has given the Maple Leafs a much-needed boost.
His early performance in the face of adversity has also given the organization a glimpse of a potentially reliable long-term option in goal.
The Leafs next game will be Thursday, Dec. 11 when they host the San Jose Sharks, with Hildeby listed as questionable to start in that game.
