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NHL analyst manifests Andrei Vasilevskiy's return to Vezina Trophy winner-like form after last season's disappointing end
NHL analyst Steve Konroyd is hopeful that Andrei Vasilevskiy can return to his best form. After a tough 2023-24 season, which included back surgery and poor performances, there's optimism for his comeback.
Vasilevskiy missed the start of last season due to surgery. His stats were below his usual level, with a 2.90 GAA and a .900 SV%. Despite a tough season and defensive issues with the team, he showed improvement. He had a strong 12-game stretch, posting a .915 SV% and 2.41 GAA.
Konroyd reckons Andrei Vasilevskiy’s past performances and competitive nature means he could bounce back.
"I think he can," Konroyd said. "His numbers last season were the lowest of his career, and he had back surgery in September, missing the first two months. He struggled in the playoffs, but he's only 30 years old and a competitor."
Jake Guentzel and Ryan McDonough are joining the team, so with better defense, Vasilevskiy should get the support he needs.
"Yeah, and his teammates love him. With the addition of Jake Guentzel and Ryan McDonough, and the pickup of JJ Moser, Tampa should be better defensively, which will help Vasilevskiy's game," Konroyd said.
Jamie Hersch also supports this view and noted Vasilevskiy’s dedication and the respect he has from teammates.
The next season is crucial for Andrei Vasilevskiy. He needs to manage his recovery and handle a full schedule. Turning 30, he must adapt his training and rest to stay at his best.
Andrei Vasilevskiy will be aiming for improvement this season
Andrei Vasilevskiy is still one of the NHL's top goalies, despite a challenging season and back surgery.
A four-time Vezina Trophy finalist and 2019 winner, Vasilevskiy wasn't happy with the Ligtning's disappointing playoff loss to the Panthers last season. During the exit interview, he admitted that the team was inconsistent and took responsibility for his role.
"Every season is a lesson, good season, bad season, so you always have to take something positive out of it." Vasilevskiy said.
Vasilevskiy said thaat the season was a "roller coaster" as he stressed the importance of consistency in the NHL.
"And again the whole season for me and for the team, It was such a roller coaster where I thought, the team especially I was the big part of it were a little inconsistent, and it show you know in the playoffs we played against such a probably the most consistent team in the NHL this season."
He acknowledged that the team, including himself, needs to work harder to improve. Vasilevskiy is focused on being more consistent as the team prepares to bounce back next season.
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