Edmonton Oilers: Cam Talbot Proven as Top NHL Starter
Edmonton Oilers goaltender Cam Talbot set out to prove his worth as an NHL starter this season. He did just that, and more, to show his true potential.
Ranking amongst the top goaltenders this past year, Talbot matched up with some of the NHL’s elite net minders and is working toward also being placed in that category.
Earlier in his career, Edmonton Oilers goaltender Cam Talbot saw the ice from the bench. As a backup to Henrik Lundqvist in his time with the New York Rangers, Talbot was eager to prove his worth.
Edmonton Oilers
When Lundqvist went down, falling victim to injury in the stretch of the 2014-15 campaign Talbot stepped up to the plate. In 34 starts, Talbot posted a 21-9-4 record, boasting a 2.21 GAA and .926 save percentage with the Rangers. He was an outstanding presence and showed his potential as an eventual starter.
General Manager Peter Chiarelli was one of the people who recognized this, and traded for him in the 2015 offseason. In the 2015-16 season, he started 53 games, going 21-27-5 and posting a .917 save mark and 2.55 GAA. His hard work and determination earned him a three-year extension. This gave him confidence and drive to prove himself worthy of the starting role he had earned. That showed greatly this past year.
Talbot worked tirelessly this season, starting 73 games, the most out of any other NHL goaltender. He went 42-22-8, posting a .919 save percentage and 2.39 GAA. His 42 wins were tied with the Capitals’ Braden Holtby for the league lead. His seven shutouts also matched Holtby for first place.
In the playoffs, he was also great, posting a .924 save mark and a 2.48 GAA through 13 games.
Statistically, Talbot continues to thrive, but you can also see it in his physical play. He is more agile and confident, and appears quicker in certain areas, especially his glove side. Talbot continues to work on his weaker areas, and it has helped drive his game forward.
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Overall, not only did he rank among the NHL’s best, but he continues to work toward that point.