Armed with a one-way contract for the first time in his career, Calgary Flames puck-stopper Joni Ortio probably never imagined that he would be waiting until March to notch his first victory of the season at hockey’s highest level.
But at least the wait is finally over.
“It’s huge for his confidence,” said Flames goalie coach Jordan Sigalet shortly after Ortio backstopped his squad to Saturday’s 4-2 slump-buster against the Pittsburgh Penguins at Consol Energy Center.
“He’s played some games well this year for us and hasn’t been rewarded, so that gets pretty frustrating and weighs on your mind a bit.