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Should Alexandar Georgiev start in goal for Colorado Avalanche in Game 2? Looking at the Avs' backup goalie option
After a disappointing Game 1 performance by Alexandar Georgiev, the question looms large for the Colorado Avalanche: should they stick with Georgiev in net for Game 2 against the Winnipeg Jets?
Georgiev's struggles were evident, as he surrendered a staggering seven goals on just 23 shots, ultimately contributing to the Avalanche's 7-6 loss. In the opening frame, he allowed the Jets to match the Avalanche goal for goal.
In the second period, Georgiev showed some improvement, with only one goal conceded, the third period was disastrous, as the Jets capitalized on defensive lapses, scoring four goals to secure the win.
Heading into the Stanley Cup Playoffs, goaltending was already a concern for the Avalanche. Despite leading the league in wins, with 38, during the regular season, Alexandar Georgiev's statistics raised doubts about his ability to perform at a high level under playoff pressure.
With a subpar .897 save percentage and a goals-against average of 3.02, Georgiev's performance in Game 1 only added fuel to the skepticism surrounding his playoff capabilities.
Delving deeper into the analytics, Alexandar Georgiev's numbers paint a grim picture. With a dismal -12.45 goals saved above average and a negative goals saved above expected, it's clear that his performance throughout the season left much to be desired.
The Avalanche cannot afford to enter into a goaltending battle with the Jets if they hope to advance in the playoffs.
Who could replace Alexandar Georgiev should he be benched for Game 2?
Should the Avalanche opt to make a change in net for Game 2, the most likely candidate to replace Georgiev would be Justus Annunen.
Despite his lack of playoff experience, Annunen has shown promise in a limited sample size, boasting a respectable record, a .916 save percentage and a goals-against average around 2.5. While starting Annunen may carry some risk, his potential to provide a spark in net could outweigh the uncertainties surrounding his playoff debut.
Another name to possibly watch out for if it gets more dire is Arvid Holm. He has not yet made his debut for the Colorado Avalanche, but posted a 6-6-0 record with the Colorado Eagles in the AHL this season.
Holm has bounced between the ECHL and AHL this season and has played the last two seasons with the Jets' own Manitoba Moose. Maybe if the Avalanche could use some behind the scenes info on the Jets' organization, a turn to Holm could work out.
Alexandar Georgiev's lackluster performance in Game 1 has left the Avalanche with a critical decision to make regarding their goaltending situation for Game 2. With Georgiev's struggles and Annunen waiting in the wings, the Avalanche must weigh their options carefully as they seek to bounce back and even the series against the Jets.
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