Andrei Vasilevskiy Named Toughest Goalie to Score Against by NHL Players
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Welcome to Goalie Week, as celebrated by NHL Social from September 2-7, honoring the skill and artistry of goaltenders throughout NHL history. According to NHL.com, a recent survey of NHL players reveals that Andrei Vasilevskiy of the Tampa Bay Lightning is widely considered the most difficult goalie to score against in the League.
Vasilevskiy’s Dominance Recognized
Despite not winning the Vezina Trophy last season, Vasilevskiy received the most votes – 16 out of 42 players surveyed – as the toughest opponent for NHL forwards. Players consistently highlighted his imposing physical presence, agility, and remarkable positioning as key factors in his success.
Forward Jake Guentzel, who recently signed with the Lightning for the 2024-25 season, previously faced Vasilevskiy for eight seasons and experienced the challenge firsthand. Guentzel, a consistent 30+ goal scorer in six of the past eight seasons, has a career shooting percentage of 10.3% against Vasilevskiy, scoring only four goals on 39 shots in 10 games. “[Vasilevskiy] is huge. Moves so well, so agile and he is fast side to side,” guentzel stated during the United States Olympic Orientation camp in Plymouth, Michigan. NHL.com
key Attributes Highlighted by Opponents
Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson echoed these sentiments, noting Vasilevskiy’s dynamic movement, puck-reading ability, and positional soundness. Wilson has scored only one goal on 33 shots (3%) against Vasilevskiy in 20 games. “Nothing really gets through him by accident, he’s just very good positionally,” Wilson said. NHL.com
Many players believe Vasilevskiy has set the standard for goaltending performance over the past decade.
Vasilevskiy’s Accomplishments
Vasilevskiy’s reputation is built on a foundation of meaningful achievements, including:
Two-time stanley Cup Champion: He lead the Tampa Bay Lightning to stanley Cup victories in 2020 and 2021.
Conn Smythe Trophy Winner (2021-22): Recognized as the most valuable player during the 2022 playoffs. NHL.com
* Vezina Trophy Winner (2018-19): Awarded as the League’s best goaltender. NHL.com
Vasilevskiy currently plays for the Tampa Bay Lightning.NHL.com
Looking Ahead
Andrei Vasilevskiy’s consistent performance and accolades solidify his position as one of the NHL’s elite goaltenders. As the 2024-25 season begins, forwards will undoubtedly continue to find him a formidable challenge, reinforcing his reputation as the toughest goalie to score against.