Becoming a starting goaltender in the NHL is truly a cumbersome task. Goaltenders are usually the most criticized players on the ice, yet are also cherished by a truly anxious fan base.
Most goaltenders grow accustom to the limelight that comes with the position.
Fans of the Detroit Red Wings were extremely critical on a once top goaltending prospect who seldom got time in net. That goaltender was Jimmy Howard.
After spending four seasons with the AHL-affiliate Grand Rapids Griffins, Howard was ready to step into the starter's role in the 2009-2010 season. He had only nine appearances prior to the 2009-2010 season and was ready to become the next netminder in Hockeytown.
Howard's rookie season might be dubbed as one of the best ever in Red Wings history. The native of Syracuse, New York, was able to start 63 games for the Red Wings that season. He carried the team on his back and won the hearts of many fans with his 37-15-13 record, 2.26 goals against average and .924 save percentage.
His stellar rookie season was so great that the young backstop was nominated for the Calder Memorial Trophy, annually ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Garrett Kolodziej
Detroit Red Wings: Why 2012-13 Will Be a Make-or-Break Season for Jimmy Howard
September 24th, 2012 by Garrett Kolodziej Leave a reply »
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