Tampa Bay Lightning goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy is currently experiencing a nightmare run in the playoffs, with three consecutive losses to his name. The 28-year-old Russian netminder’s performance contrasts sharply with his previous playoff record, where he went 14-0 in games following a loss over the last two seasons. However, this year, Vasilevskiy has seen his post-loss record drop to 14-2, as the Lightning now trail 3-1 against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Andrei Vasilevskiy’s performance during the current playoff run ranks among the worst for NHL goalies who have played a minimum of three games. He holds the lowest save percentage at .856%, has allowed the most goals with 19, and has the worst Goals Saved Above Expected rating at -5.51. Additionally, Vasilevskiy has a dismal 4.33 Goals Against Average.
As the Lightning prepare to travel to Toronto for Game 5, the team faces a critical decision: stick with their struggling star goaltender or make a bold move and put another goalie in the crease. With the stakes high in this playoff series, the Lightning’s coaching staff must weigh the risks and rewards of either choice carefully.
Vasilevskiy’s past success suggests that he may be able to bounce back, but his current form raises questions about his ability to perform under pressure in the remaining games. The Lightning don’t have time to mess around, it’s do or die as Game 5 could be the last game of their season.
