Is There a Goalie Problem in Helsinki?
Helsinki, Finland.
It has been a comment critique by analysts that cover the VHL. Helsinki has a great promising team, but is hindered by it's goaltending. We wonder, is this theory overblown, and what kinds of options do the Titans actually have?
Even as HOF goalie Tuomas Tukio was in net the Helsinki Titans have been underfire about how strong their goalies have been. Despite great season statistics, Tukio was always blames (mostly underwarranted) for their lack of Continental Cups. Tukio pulled those bad analysts kicking and screaming into the Hall. Now we find ourselves with Kimmo Salo facing these same criticisms.
No, Salo doesn't have the "TPE" count that Tukio did, but he's been posting some consistent numbers year after year, and has yet to even be mentioned for the good he's done. Last season management showed a lack of confidence in him bringing Eggly Bagelface onto the roster for playoffs. Salo has responded with an insane 1.60 GAA and 4 Shutouts in the first ten games of the year. Many have linked this to the lack of league parity and a strong defensive core in Helsinki.
While it seems Salo is their man this year, it also seems (with that Bagelface move last season) that even with good numbers, the management team could be looking at other options. With a number of veteran goalies becoming available in the near future, and a crop of young goalies entering the draft, Helsinki might be looking at a replacement. Helsinki holds two firsts in next year's draft which should provide them the opportunity to draft a young goalie if that is something in their plans. With their current D-core it might make sense for them to bring in a young goalie as he will be more sheltered in Helsinki than if he were to go to a rebuilding team (see: Mikkealson in Seattle).
Whether the Titans decide to go new or used, it seems as though Salo could be playing for his career here in S41. The once touted franchise goalie has shown signs of fighting for wins, while other nights he seems lost. His roster spot has been saved with the lack of goaltending options - however this saving grace for Salo might also work in Helsinki's favour if Salo continues to put up these numbers.