With a Vezina Trophy already on his mantle and potentially more to come, Winnipeg Jets netminder Connor Hellebuyck has inserted himself into the conversation for greatest American goalie of all time. The 31-year-old is posting historic numbers that stack up against the biggest U.S. names between the pipes.
Making a Case for Hellebuyck
Through his first 10 NHL seasons, Hellebuyck ranks near the top in virtually every major statistical category among his American peers:
- 3rd in career shutouts, just two shy of passing Ryan Miller for 2nd most by a U.S. goalie
- Tied for 4th in save percentage (.917) among American goalies with 100+ games played
- 6th in career wins with 309, on pace to move into the top 5 this season
- Tied for 7th in goals against average (2.58) for U.S. goalies with 100+ games
The advanced stats paint an even more impressive picture. Since 2022-23, Hellebuyck leads all NHL goalies with an astounding 72.51 goals saved above expected, nearly 20 goals better than 2nd place. Simply put, no goalie is performing at a higher level relative to what’s expected of them.
He’s one of the best in the world right now…If he sees it, he’s going to stop it.
– Rangers goalie Jonathan Quick on Hellebuyck
Ascending the American Goalie Ranks
Comparing across eras is always tricky, but Hellebuyck is building a resume that rivals the all-time U.S. greats. If he wins the Vezina again this year as expected, he’ll become the first American goalie to earn the honor three times, breaking a tie with Tim Thomas and Frank Brimsek.
His durability is also unmatched in today’s NHL. While most teams rely on tandems, Hellebuyck is on track for his 4th straight 60-start season. No other goalie has faced more shots or made more saves since his 2015 debut.
He is a bit of an anomaly compared to the rest of the league now…He’s very efficient in his movement.
– Former Red Wings goalie Jimmy Howard
The Stanley Cup Question
The one achievement missing from Hellebuyck’s ledger is a Stanley Cup championship. Does he need to hoist the Cup to truly be considered the American GOAT? His fellow U.S. goalies have differing opinions.
Based on what he’s accomplished…I wouldn’t say that he has to win a Stanley Cup to be in that conversation.
– Tim Thomas, 2x Vezina winner, Stanley Cup champion
Others argue a Cup is essential to cementing Hellebuyck’s status, noting how Brimsek, Barrasso and Quick reached immortality by leading their teams to titles. But Hellebuyck’s individual brilliance is undeniable, even if ultimate team success has eluded him thus far.
I don’t think it’s fair to determine if you’re not mentioned in the breath with the best if you haven’t won a championship in a team game.
– Mike Richter, 3x Olympian, Stanley Cup champion
A Generational Talent
Whether he ends up as the consensus pick for best American goalie ever or not, Hellebuyck is undoubtedly the premier U.S. netminder of his generation. His unique blend of size, athleticism and consistency makes him the prototype for the modern superstar goalie.
Now in the prime of his career, Hellebuyck has plenty of time to further bolster his case. Additional Vezinas and that elusive Stanley Cup would render the debate academic. But even if he never lifts the Cup, his place as an all-time great American goalie is already secure.
