In a remarkable turn of events, 30-year-old undrafted goaltender Alex Lyon has emerged as the key figure leading the Florida Panthers in their quest for a playoff spot. With only 36 career NHL games under his belt, Lyon has been delivering astounding performances between the pipes, including last night’s incredible 56-save victory against the Ottawa Senators.
Despite being heavily outshot 58-30, the Panthers managed to secure a decisive 7-2 win. This win marks a five-game streak for the netminder, who has allowed only seven goals during this critical period as the Panthers climbed into a wild card spot in the Eastern Conference.
In his 11 starts with the Panthers this season, Lyon boasts eight wins, a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.95, and a save percentage (SV%) of .916. His NHL journey has been a long one, with 12 games played for the Panthers, two for the Carolina Hurricanes, and 22 for the Philadelphia Flyers over a six-year span. Lyon has yet to make a playoff appearance in his career.
His success at the AHL level cannot be overlooked. Last season, he won the Harry Holmes Memorial Award while playing for the Carolina Hurricanes’ affiliate team, awarded for allowing the fewest goals against in the league, with a minimum number of games played.
Lyon’s impressive performances have undoubtedly played a pivotal role in the Panthers‘ push for a playoff spot. With only three games remaining, it remains to be seen whether the Panthers can maintain their position in the highly competitive Eastern Conference, with the New York Islanders and Pittsburgh Penguins also fighting for a spot.
