Despite not making the All-Star game, it would be tough to argue against Corey Crawford’s play so far this season for the Blackhawks. But this season shouldn’t totally be unexpected, he’s been arguably the best goalie in the league over the last few years.
Over the last three and a half seasons, Crawford has continued to put the Blackhawks in a position to win. In fact, no goalie in the league has more quality starts over that time period than the Blackhawks netminder.
Last night was Ben Bishop's 92nd QS since 2013-14, tied for 5th most in that time #Lightning @TBLightning pic.twitter.com/Qx0GqqU7OT
— Hockey Reference (@hockey_ref) February 4, 2016
The definition of a quality start in hockey can change a little from season to season. For a goalie to tally a quality start, they need to match at least the league’s mean save percentage for that season.
Meaning, if Crawford finishes a game with a save percentage of 92 percent and the overall league percentage is 91 percent, that would count as a quality start for the goalie. Over the last three seasons, the league has averaged 91.7, 91.5 and 91.4 percent. In comparison, Crawford’s save percentage has been 93.1, 92.4 and 91.7 percent.
With a host of new faces playing big roles for the Blackhawks, Crawford is needed as much as ever if the Blackhawks plan on chasing another Stanley Cup. If Crawford keeps this up, he will have them in position for their first repeat appearance in the Stanley Cup Final.
