Samuel Hlavaj is making waves at the Olympics, showing the world what he's capable of when surrounded by the right teammates. Despite a challenging season with the Minnesota Wild's AHL affiliate, the Iowa Wild, where he's struggled behind a shaky defense, Hlavaj is reminding everyone of his potential as a top-tier goaltender.
In Slovakia's unexpected journey to the semifinals, Hlavaj has been a standout performer. He's started three of four games, boasting a 2-1 record, a 2.67 goals-against average, and a stellar .932 save percentage. His recent heroics against Germany, where he made 25 saves on 27 shots, underscore his ability to rise to the occasion on the international stage.
This 24-year-old undrafted goalie has faced his share of challenges in the AHL, with a 5-9-5 record, a 3.33 GAA, and a .884 save percentage this season. Yet, his confidence remains unshaken.
"I always knew I’m a good goalie," Hlavaj said. "When you have a group of players like this, it’s so much fun to play around them."
Hlavaj's international track record speaks volumes. Last season, he posted a 2.85 GAA and a .904 save percentage for Iowa, and then shone at the World Championship with a 1.99 GAA and .912 save percentage. His performances in Olympic qualifiers and World Championships have been nothing short of impressive, catching the eye of the Wild in the first place.
Teammates like Martin Fehérváry and Erik Cernak have praised Hlavaj's skills and presence in the net. Fehérváry, who has played alongside him in various international competitions, calls him the team's backbone. Meanwhile, Cernak, new to playing with Hlavaj, was quickly impressed by his talent and potential.
The road ahead in Minnesota, however, is uncertain. With Filip Gustavsson secured on a long-term deal and Jesper Wallstedt poised as a key future asset, Hlavaj's path to the NHL may not be straightforward.
As a restricted free agent this offseason, Hlavaj faces critical decisions about his future. Will he stay with the Wild, seek a trade, or perhaps explore opportunities overseas?
Hlavaj remains focused on the present, with Slovakia eyeing a potential medal. Their next challenge is the United States, a team with familiar faces from the Wild organization. The prospect of Hlavaj leading Slovakia to victory against his own NHL organization adds an intriguing subplot to the semifinals.
"We made it to the semifinal, so it’s awesome," Hlavaj said. "I’m just trying to stop the puck here.
What’s gonna happen, it’s gonna happen. It’s already a huge success if you look at the other rosters and ours.
But we have two more games to prove ourselves."
His teammates believe in his potential, too. Fehérváry is confident that Hlavaj's time will come, despite the crowded goalie situation in Minnesota. As Hlavaj continues to shine on the international stage, he's proving that he's ready for the next chapter, wherever it may lead.