The Minnesota Wild’s 9-1-1 tear in the month of November can be attributed to many different parts of their roster thriving, perhaps none more than their 23-year-old netminder Jesper Wallstedt. Wallstedt is 6-0-2 on the year with a .935% and 3 shutouts.
Standout games:
- 36 Save shutout (W) vs the Calgary Flames (Nov 9th)
- 3 Goals on 45 shots (W) vs the Carolina Hurricanes (Nov 19th)
- 32 Save shutout (W) vs the Winnipeg Jets (Nov 23rd)
The Swedish netminder is making the most of his first opportunity in the NHL following three inconsistent AHL seasons, and has lots to prove as a former first round draft pick. Last year was particularly disappointing with the Iowa Wild, but it seems management has made the right call to bring up Wallstedt and give him an opportunity now, running a duo of calm, composed and positional Swedish goalies.
He has been a treat to watch so far this year and it will be interesting to see if his play can keep up as the season goes on.