(Caps Outsider)
A year ago, he was a third string goaltender. Then a backup. Then a playoff starter. Now, Vitek Vanecek is one of the Caps’ most valuable players in the early part of the season. And he’s doing it with the lowest salary on the active roster, at $716,667 a year.
Every goaltender has a hiccup during a string of outstanding performances. Vanecek had his yesterday against the Flames, but there’s no need for concern.
“It’s not like you can fault him on any of the goals,” said head coach Peter Laviolette, as the goals Vanecek allowed were on a deflected rebound, a breakaway, and a shot with two bodies screening him.