It’s been a St. Patrick’s Day to forget for Calgary Flames rookie goaltender Dustin Wolf.
After allowing five goals on 26 shots against the Toronto Maple Leafs, Flames head coach Ryan Huska opted for backup Dan Vladar between the pipes for the final frame.
Per Sportsnet 960’s Pat Steinberg, it’s the first time all season that the Flames have pulled a goaltender mid-game.
After the game, Huska told reporters that pulling Wolf wasn’t a product of his performance, but rather to keep him rested to play on Tuesday.
“By no means was this on him tonight in that situation.”
Vladar, 27, has ceded the starters spot to Wolf and in his 25 games this season, he’s recorded a .893 save percentage and .298 goals-against average with two shutouts.
Monday’s game, where he finished his night with a .807 save percentage, was a rare stinker for Wolf, who is largely expected to be a Calder Trophy finalist. The 23-year-old has been the Flames’ most valuable player this season, with a 22-13 record, .914 save percentage and 2.54 goals-against average.
Wolf has also recorded three shutouts and has been the backbone of the Flames’ unexpected push for the playoffs.
The Flames will take on the New York Rangers in the second half of their back-to-bac, giving the youngster the chance to bounce back quickly.
