The Minnesota Wild have had 17 goaltenders play at least one game since entering the league in 2000. Today, we’re counting down the Top 10.
I have researched each goalie, primarily their time with the Minnesota Wild but any time spent elsewhere has also been considered. Accomplishments achieved away from the Wild were given a smaller bearing on overall ranking.
I have gathered and reviewed all statistical information in regards to number of games started, save percentages, win percentages, and regular season vs playoff success, and ranked each as objectively as I could.
Each goalie has been ranked comparatively to each other, with the primary requirement being that the goalie must have been on ice for at least 1 minute of regular season game time at some point in a Minnesota Wild jersey.
This eliminates former Stanley Cup Champion and the 2nd Expansion Draft pick of the Minnesota Wild, Mike Vernon, as he was traded without ever playing a game. Likewise, Andrew Hammond has been excluded as he has not yet played a game for the Wild.
A subjective look was also taken at the skaters available during each goalie’s tenure with the team, as defense can inflate or deflate a goaltender’s overall statistics, and offense can affect win/loss records and overall team success.
Player awards, franchise records, and major accomplishments have also been considered and added to each goalie’s overall success. Conversely, team and player worsts resulted in negative rankings for each player.
Most importantly, these rankings are purely my opinion, and I welcome any friendly debate in the comments. Tell me if you think someone else should be on the list, or if someone deserves to be higher/lower. With that, let’s get to it.