New York Rangers goaltending prospect Dylan Garand shows great potential
The New York Rangers have a good thing in Hartford, as the AHL squad put up a solid performance against the Syracuse Crunch.
On November 6th they'd secure an overtime victory, putting them ahead of the Crunch, 2-1.
The big factor that saved the Wolfpack, was Rangers prospect Dylan Garand who made 31 saves that night.
Wolfpack Alternate Captain Alex Belzile complimented Garand on his abilities last night.
Garand's proven himself to have great upside, and could find himself like Shesterkin does in the NHL the one to carry the Wolfpack to victory this season.
Garand was able to shut down the Crunch's attempts to beat him top-shelf, but his ability to flash the glove gave the Crunch nothing until the final 16 seconds of the game.
Garands Shortcomings
Garand's strong glove makes him a competent goaltender who is difficult to beat. He has a .910 save percentage (SV%) and a 2.52 goals-against average (GAA) on 145 shots, and his ability to remain calm despite the surplus of shots has also stood out. In the first period against the Crunch, he made 13 saves, while the Wolf Pack's offense only generated three shots. Even with the ice tilted, he can still keep the score low.
Garand is making a showing, as he first started the season on October 19th against the Bridgeport Islanders. He's grown in confidence, and for a smaller goalie at 6'1" stature, and 176 pounds he will have to use his athleticism to use to be successful. Much like how the Preds Juuse Saros plays, with aggression.
Garand's Upside
Could Garand use success in the AHL as a means of becoming Igor Shesterkin's back up in the NHL? It could be the pathway for him. Garand could be next in line, as Jonathan Quick will be turning 39, Garand at 22 could be the Rangers next option at the position.
It could happen soon, as the Rangers will need to consider options in net once they sign Shesterkin to a long-term deal.
In the meantime Garand will need to play lights out to keep GM Chris Drury's eyes fixated on his stellar performance in the AHL.
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