Many have said that he may need some time to adjust to the new NHL...comparing him to Theo's slow start for instance, but I think he will continue to struggle in this environment. He seems to excel in lower shooting games where he sees less action, and where he can play his own fundamentaly sound, positioned game. I think many goalies alike will continue to struggle, I don't think Theo however is one of them. Eklund had his views on this too which is a good read:
Talking to a head coach from out west last night the conversation quickly turned to the a problem arising. "Many of the goalies in our league currently grew up playing positional butterfly. With more room in the offensive zone and less clutch and grab the positional goalie that just blocked most of the net isn`t ideal. Athletic goalies are the new wave. Hasek is the prime example. Legace in Detroit as well. Butterfly goalies are struggling. Fernandez taking over for Roloson is another example."
There are too few of these kinds of Goalies out there. Last night the Blue Jackets brought out one such goalie for his first Columbus start, Martin Prusek, and the jackets knocked off the Predators. Prusek is a guy who many compare to Hasek.
Now certain teams are having huge goalie issues and there are a few goalies out there that will be moved soon. Edmonton needs a goalie. San Jose needs a goalie. Atlanta needs a goalie. With Brodeur`s injury, NJ needs a goalie. Buffalo`s patience holding onto Noronen mat really soon pay-off. Mika is an athletic goalie that will do well in the new NHL. Felix Potvin is athletic and available as well.
I think Jose on on the cusp and he has a great coach and plenty of determination. But that's what makes our wave of young goalies great - they all rock! We are set for years and I think we have some great trade bait - and trades that will be lopsided for the Habs if played right.