WINNIPEG — Despite a seemingly low .897 save percentage in the first two playoff games, Connor Hellebuyck`s performance has been far from underwhelming.
The goalie, who was widely celebrated with “M-V-P” chants during the regular season, has proven to be crucial in the Winnipeg Jets` first-round series against the St. Louis Blues.
In a closely contested series like this, evaluating a goaltender solely based on save percentage can be deceptive. Hellebuyck faced a relatively low volume of just 39 shots across the two games, which can be challenging for a goalie who typically thrives on more action to find his rhythm.
However, he has made some pivotal, game-altering saves.
Hellebuyck made critical saves early in Game 2, shutting down several high-danger opportunities created by the Blues and keeping the game scoreless in the initial period.
“He helped us settle into the game early on,” commented Kyle Connor after the Jets secured a 2-0 series lead on Monday.
