Can Jhonas Enroth be a Number One Goalie?
Jhonas Enroth is finally getting his opportunity. With the trade of star goalie Ryan Miller to the St. Louis Blues a few weeks ago, Enroth might be able to play his way to the number one goalie spot in the depth chart. He is going to have to beat out newcomer Michel Neuvirth who was acquired from the Washington Capitals at the trade deadline.
Just how well is Enroth playing? Since Miller was traded, Enroth is 2-3 with a .937 save percentage. He has wins against the playoff bound San Jose Sharks and Tampa Bay Lightning. In addition, he had one goal losses against the Chicago Blackhawks and Dallas Stars. In his Lightning win, he made 43 saves!
When Miller was in town, Enroth saw spot starts. Perhaps he would play once every 8 games. It seems the Sabres top brass believes in Enroth as he has started 5 of 6 games since Miller was traded. Enroth routinely sees over 30 shots a night and is up to the challenge to cement himself as the Sabres number one goalie moving forward. While he may lack ideal goaltender size (Ht: 5 ft 10 in) he is quick and has a great glove. If the Sabres can develop their younger players and/or sign some free agents, I believe the Sabres have a goalie that could lead them to a deep playoff run.
Enroth was drafted by the Buffalo Sabres 46th overall in the 2006 NHL Draft. He made his debut in the 2009-2010 season, losing his only start. For his career, he is 25-33-12 with a 2.74 G.A.A and a .913 save percentage.