Artur Akhtyamov's New Deal and NHL Player Safety: A Deep Dive
Fresh off a stellar shutout performance, Artur Akhtyamov has inked a three-year extension with an average annual value of $900,000, kicking off next season. The first year comes as a two-way deal with a $300,000 minors salary, transitioning to one-way contracts in the final two years. By the end of this contract, Akhtyamov will be 27 and an unrestricted free agent.
In the AHL, Akhtyamov ranks 18th in save percentage among qualified goalies, standing at .904. He's faced the ninth most shots on goal, a testament to his workload.
The AHL is home to a few standout goalies this season, with Michael DePietro leading the pack at .936, followed by Carl Lindbom at .927. Meanwhile, Sebastian Cossa, Sergei Murashov, and Jacob Fowler are all boasting impressive numbers above .915.
Fowler, in particular, is catching eyes as a potential future star for the Habs.
Interestingly, Akhtyamov finds himself as the second-ranked NHL goalie on Moneypuck for Goals Saved Over Expected per 60 minutes, thanks to a brief but flawless 10-minute NHL appearance where he faced 11 shots without conceding a goal. This leaves questions about his future NHL potential wide open, especially when considering Cayden Primeau's superior AHL save percentage.
In a recent game, the Leafs held a 3-0 lead, only to see the Wild storm back with two quick goals. However, Matt Knies sealed the deal with an empty-netter, ensuring a fun victory for the Leafs.
The hockey world is buzzing with reactions to the recent suspension of Radko Gudas. Connor McDavid, the Edmonton Oilers star, has called for a review of the NHL’s player safety process. Acknowledging the complexity of the department’s role, McDavid suggests that the system might need re-evaluation.
The NHLPA's involvement in filing grievances highlights the intersection of the league's entertainment aspect with real-world implications. Their role is to advocate for players, including Gudas, arguing that a five-game suspension is excessive based on the Department of Player Safety's history. This advocacy is crucial, as demonstrated by Jason Spezza's successful reduction of his suspension in the past.
The NHLPA represents diverse player opinions on suspensions, not all aligning with McDavid's views. Any changes to the system would require negotiation and compromise, as the NHL's reluctance to suspend players stems from a desire to keep stars on the ice, especially during playoffs.
McDavid's stance is commendable, and it will be intriguing to see if these discussions lead to substantial changes. As for the Leafs, they gear up for a back-to-back this weekend, starting with a home game against the Islanders on Tuesday.