Detroit Red Wings’ Ville Husso Strives for Improvement as No. 1 Goalie

After evaluating his performances in the first two weeks of the season, Detroit Red Wings goaltender Ville Husso deemed them to be satisfactory. However, Husso acknowledges that there is room for improvement, especially when it comes to his statistics. With a goals-against average of 3.38 and a save percentage of .893 in five starts, Husso ranks in the bottom third among goaltenders who have played at least four games. It’s still early in the season, and the competition among goaltenders is close.

Husso recognizes that facing skilled goal scorers is part of the game. He believes that keeping the opponent’s goals to one or two per game would be ideal for his numbers. While he admits that there were a couple of goals he would like to have back, he focuses on taking it day by day and remaining prepared for the next game.

Despite his stats, Husso has received the vote of confidence from the Red Wings organization. Head coach Lalonde confirmed during training camp that Husso is the team’s No. 1 goaltender, a decision that still stands. With James Reimer getting the start in the upcoming game against the Winnipeg Jets due to a compact schedule, Husso will serve as the backup.

Lalonde acknowledged that Husso’s numbers may not be impressive, but he emphasized the importance of looking at the bigger picture. Lalonde believes that Husso has provided the team with opportunities to win and has been excellent in his previous two starts. Lalonde also acknowledged that the team needs to step up in front of Husso to provide better support.

Husso is expected to start in the upcoming game against the Boston Bruins, marking his sixth start of the season. As the team’s No. 1 goalie, he has faced tough opponents such as the New Jersey Devils, Tampa Bay Lightning, Penguins, and Senators. While the Red Wings have a record of 3-1-1 in games started by Husso, he remains focused on improving his performance.

The Red Wings have another goaltender, Alex Lyon, available. Lalonde expressed the desire to give Lyon some playing time, but he also mentioned the possibility of sending him to the minors for a conditioning stint with the Griffins.

Last season, the Red Wings faced goaltending challenges when their backup goalie struggled, leading to an overreliance on Husso. The team aims to avoid a similar situation this season by carrying three goaltenders. They want to ensure that Husso’s workload remains manageable and that he can perform at his best.

Despite his struggles towards the end of last season, Lalonde recognizes the strong performances Husso delivered in the first 30 games. He hopes to see Husso return to that form and believes that the team has earned many points this season due to his contributions.

Contact Helene St. James at [email protected]. Follow her @helenestjames. Read more on the Detroit Red Wings and sign up for our Red Wings newsletter. Her latest book, “On the Clock: Behind the Scenes with the Detroit Red Wings at the NHL Draft,” is available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Triumph Books. Personalized copies can be requested via email.

Reference

Sarah Anderson

Sarah Anderson dives into the fast-paced world of NHL hockey. Her coverage includes game analysis, player spotlights, and the latest news from the ice. Sarah’s dedication to the sport ensures that hockey enthusiasts stay informed about the NHL’s thrilling action.